Claire’s POV

"I don't know yet." The leaf crumbled in my hands, its brittle edges scattering in the wind. "Some days I feel strong, like I'm doing exactly what I'm supposed to be doing. Other days I feel like I'm drowning, like I've waded in over my head among people who are playing games I don't know the rules to."

Ethan was silent for a long while. When he spoke, his voice was gentle. "Are you happy, Claire?"

Such a simple question, and yet one that sliced through all the complexity, ...