Page 44

Eva wiped the tears from her cheeks, her touch gentle. "It doesn't. Trust me."

"How can you be sure?" Claire asked.

"Because that’s not how love works,” Eva assured her.

Her phone buzzed. Claire pulled away long enough to glance at the screen. “Julia checking in on me.”

Eva rubbed her back.

"You should answer her," she said, squeezing her hand.

Claire picked up her phone and hit the call button. "Hey sis," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

"How are you doing?" Julia asked.

"Today's the day," Claire whispered, fighting back tears.

"I'll be over in a hour,” Julia said.

Claire nodded. "Sounds good."

Eva wrapped her arms around her, resting her chin on her shoulder.

"I love you," Julia said.

"Love you too," Claire said, tears spilling down her cheeks.

Eva squeezed her hand.

"I'll see you soon," Julia said.

"Okay," Claire replied. She hung up and leaned into Eva, letting her hold her close.

"You're not alone," Eva reminded her.

"I know," Claire said, sighing. "Thank you for staying."

Eva smiled. "Of course. I'm not going anywhere."

"I appreciate that," Claire said, wiping away her tears.

Eva cupped her face in her hands and kissed her forehead. "I'm here for you, whatever you need."

Claire sighed. "I think I need a shower."

"You do," Eva agreed, making Claire chuckle. “I’ll be right here when you’re done.”

“What about the cafe?” Claire asked. Eva had already been away from the cafe a lot because of her.

Eva shrugged. “Michael can handle it. But I’ll go in tomorrow for sure. Would you like to do anything together today or would you prefer to spend the day with just Julia?”

"I'd like to spend some time with you and my sister,” Claire replied after a moment.

"I'll stay then," Eva promised.

"Thank you." Claire gave her a gentle hug.

Eva squeezed her tightly. "Of course."