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Claire felt a little better. She could do this. She had her sister and she had Eva. They would help her through it.

Eva got up and took her hand. “If you’re feeling up to it later, we could go to a gallery. The three of us. And get food after.”

Claire nodded. "Sure. I'd like that."

"I'm proud of you," Eva told her.

"Why are you proud of me?" Claire asked, confused.

"Because you're going through a rough time and you're still getting up every day and taking care of yourself. It's amazing," Eva explained.

Claire felt tears welling up in her eyes.

"No, no, no," Eva said. She leaned forward and wiped them away. "Don't cry. Please don't cry. Not because of me.”

Claire laughed, but the tears continued to fall. "I'm trying, Eva. I really am."

Eva held her tight. "I know, my love. I know."

Claire buried her face in her shoulder.

"You're allowed to feel sad," Eva told her.

"But I've been sad for so long," Claire whispered.

"And you'll probably feel sad again, but that's okay. You can't always be happy," Eva replied.

Claire nodded. "Yeah, I guess so."

"Do you want me to get you anything?" Eva asked.

Claire shook her head. "Just stay with me."

Eva kissed the top of her head. "I'm not going anywhere."

"Thank you," Claire said, her voice breaking.

"Of course, my love. I'm here for you," Eva promised.

Claire clung to her, crying harder.

Eva held her tightly, letting her cry it out.

"I don't know what I'd do without you," Claire whispered.

Eva smiled. "Well, that's something we'll never have to find out."

Claire sniffled. "Promise?"

Eva kissed her cheek. "I promise. Now, go get your shower. Julia will be here soon."

"Right," Claire said.

Eva hugged her one last time.

Claire headed into the bathroom and turned the water on. She stepped into the shower and let the warm water wash over her.

It was comforting. She closed her eyes and let herself relax.