Claire looked down at Lily, who was playing with blocks on the floor.
“I’m thinking that I’m happy.”
Edward smiled.
“Good.”
“I didn’t think I’d ever feel this way again.”
“I know.”
“But I do.”
She turned to him.
“I really do.”
Edward crossed the room and hugged her.
“You deserve it,” he said quietly.
Claire closed her eyes and let herself believe him.
Two years after that night in the snow, Claire graduated.
She walked across the stage in a blue gown with Lily in the audience, clapping and squealing.
Edward sat beside her, beaming.
Marie dabbed her eyes with a tissue.
Jessica was there too, cheering louder than anyone.
After the ceremony, Claire stood outside holding her diploma.
Lily ran up and grabbed her leg.
“Mama, you did it!”
Claire laughed and scooped her up.
“I did.”
“Are you happy?”
Claire kissed her daughter’s forehead.
“So happy.”
That night, Edward hosted a small dinner at the cottage.
Just Claire, Lily, Marie, Jessica, and a few other friends Claire had made over the past two years.
The table was full of food and laughter and warmth.
Lily sat on Claire’s lap, stealing bites of cake.
Edward raised his glass.
