Edward set down his book.
“Claire, you’re the one who didn’t give up.”
She shook her head.
“I wanted to. So many times.”
“But you didn’t.”
He leaned forward.
“You walked through a blizzard to keep your daughter safe. You faced your parents in court. You’re building a life. That’s not me. That’s you.”
Claire’s eyes burned.
“I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Edward smiled.
“Then we’re even.”
One year after the trial, Claire received a letter.
It was from her mother.
Claire stared at the envelope for a long time before opening it.
Inside, the handwriting was shaky.
*Claire,*
*I know I don’t have the right to ask for your forgiveness. I know what we did was unforgivable. But I need you to know that I’m sorry. I was selfish. I was cruel. I let my pride and my bitterness turn me into someone I don’t recognize.*
*I don’t expect you to respond. I don’t expect you to ever speak to me again. I just needed you to know that I see it now. I see what I did to you. And I’m sorry.*
*I hope you and Lily are happy.*
*Mom*
Claire read it three times.
Then she folded it and put it in a drawer.
She didn’t respond.
Maybe one day she would.
But not today.
Edward found her standing by the window, staring out at the garden.
“You okay?”
She nodded.
“Yeah.”
“What are you thinking about?”
