It started in her chest and didn’t stop.
After the ceremony, Sophie hugged her.
She didn’t let go for a long time.
“I’m sorry I wasn’t there the first time,” Sophie whispered.
“You’re here now.”
“Mom —” Sophie pulled back.
“Grandma called me yesterday.”
Clara’s face didn’t change.
“What did she say?”
“She asked if she could come to the ceremony.
I told her no.”
Clara was quiet.
“She’s alone, Mom.
Daniel won’t visit.
Her sister stopped calling.
She’s in that house by herself.”
“She chose that.”
“I know.
But —”
“Sophie.
You don’t owe her anything.
And neither do I.”
Sophie nodded.
She didn’t push it.
They walked out together.
The sun was warm.
Clara held her diploma in one hand and her daughter’s hand in the other.
“Where are we going?” Sophie asked.
“Anywhere.
Everywhere.
I’ve got time.”
