Claira sat across from Raymond in the quiet, restaurant. The candle on the table flickered gently, casting warm light on his face. He looked handsome in a simple black shirt, his eyes steady on her. For a second, her heart skipped. Maybe it was the baby. Maybe it was fear. Or maybe it was the old feelings she had tried to bury.
“I didn’t think you’d come,” Raymond said softly.
Claira gave a small smile. “I almost didn’t.”
“But you’re here.”
“Yes,” she said. “Because I needed to talk to someone who remembers the old me.”
Raymond nodded slowly, not pushing her. A waiter came by and poured water into their glasses. Claira picked hers up, but her hands trembled, so she put it back down.
“I’m not sure how to start,” she whispered.
“Just say what’s in your heart,” Raymond replied. “You do
