“So should you.”
We were quiet for a while.
Then Claire asked, “Are the girls all right?”
The question startled me.
“They’re beautiful,” I said. “Emily says one sleeps through everything and the other complains whenever someone moves her.”
Claire laughed softly. “Sounds familiar.”
I smiled before I felt tears spilling down my cheeks.
“Would you meet me?” I asked.
“Whenever you’re ready.”
“Today,” I said. “But not at the hospital. I need to understand this before Emily does.”
We chose a coffee shop halfway between our homes. Mom asked to come, but I told her I needed to meet Claire alone first.
“Are you angry with me?” she asked as I picked up my keys.
“Yes, Mom. I am. I love you, but I’m angry.”
She nodded. “I understand.”
I almost left without looking back.
Then I picked up one black blanket and folded it into my bag.
Claire was already waiting when I arrived. She stood as soon as she saw me.
