Just as Claire began to feel the blinding pressure in her skull before she passed out, she was dropped just as painfully to the ground where Shane ran over and cradled her in his lap. She didn't have the energy or the voice to tell his worried eyes that she was okay. It didn't really matter because when she tried to open her mouth, Shane shushed her and stroked her hair from her face.

"Brandon?" she asked anyway. Her voice barely audible and rough, but Shane was able to read her lips.

"He disappeared when Amelie showed up. Her and her guards chased after him." His voice was louder, but still rough, as well.

He helped her sit up and she wrapped her arms around him, needing to know that he was there, warm, alive. They eventually got up and sat on the couch, Michael and Eve soon following. Michael sat next to Claire, not touching her, not talking, just a silent comfort by his protective and alert posture. Eve sat on the floor in between Claire and Michael's legs and Michael's hand was in her hair.

Amelie reappeared in the house about an hour of silence later. She took a moment to take in the damage to the house and the four friends sitting together on the couch before speaking, "Brandon is still on the loose. I can't comprehend how he manages to evade my authority and tracking guards, but he has and he will strike again. Claire, we made a deal and now it's time to fulfill it. You must leave Morganville immediately."

"What about my friends?" she asked quietly. To be honest, she didn't think she could handle anymore, but she didn't want to run from her problems. It dad make her feel a little better that she no longer had a choice in the matter.

"You may take one with you. No more."

"But, they'll be in danger here, I can't leave them to deal with my problems!"

"Claire, you must leave immediately, do not waste any more of my time. One or go alone."

Claire looked nervously at her friends, who were all looking at Shane. Michael broke his stare with Shane to look at Claire, "Go with Shane, Claire. He can protect you."

She glanced at Shane, then Eve. As if he read her mind, Michael continued, "I'll take care of Eve, but you need to get away from here."

Eve nodded in agreement, a sad smile playing on her lips. Claire turned to Shane and he smiled, "I'll follow you where ever you go."

Claire nodded and turned back to Amelie, "So it's settled. Claire, Mr. Collins, go get packed."

Hope you liked :)