The Beginning Of All Sins

"I'm fine, really," Claude said as he gently removed her hand from his arm. "How have you and Jacob been doing lately? Honestly, I hope Jacob keeps a close watch on you because of your impulsiveness. I wouldn't want you to accidentally say something inappropriate to the media."

"I'll keep an eye on her, Mr. Claude," Jacob reassured.

Claude smiled at him. "You're probably the only one who can, I'm afraid."

"Is there anything else you need help with?" Jacob asked, making his loyalty and position clear to anyone paying attention.

Claude gave him a long, thoughtful look. Jacob met his gaze earnestly.

"Just take care of Sophie for me," Claude finally said with a smile. "You don't have to worry about me."

"Well, I guess that's true. Sophie and I feel better knowing you're alright," Jacob responded sincerely.

"You should go home with him," Claude told Sophie.

After hearing that Claude was okay, Sophie was ready to leave, but she felt compelled to add, "You know, everything that happened is in the past. We all hope it doesn't bother you anymore," she said. "Please. We were all so worried about you."

head. "You've really grown up. But you should go home with Jacob. I'm going to stay here for a

looked like an old shack. After thinking it over, she said, "Alright. We'll

mental state. Just as she was

who hadn't noticed his look. After a pause, Claude admitted, "Yes, I did. I told her to

again when Lilah interrupted, "Let's go for a walk, Ms. Sophie. The air is great

agreed and they left. Jacob started to follow, but Claude stopped him. "Jacob, please

turned to Claude. Sophie also looked back, hopeful that this was a sign of Claude mentoring

he was

good start. She then walked away, leaving them

understand what you're trying to say,

slightly. "I'm here

smart, and I can tell you'll

honored to

Olivia was your

long time ago. It

never

nous. We're just friends