The morning sun streamed through Claire's window, casting golden patterns across the room. She lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, replaying Cassy's call in her mind. A class reunion. The idea tugged at something deep inside her—a mix of excitement and dread.
After tossing and turning for half an hour, she finally dragged herself out of bed. The house was quiet, save for the faint clinking of dishes from the kitchen. Claire padded downstairs in her slippers, finding her mother humming an old tune while washing vegetables.
"Morning, sweetheart," her mother said, glancing over her shoulder. "You look like you didn't sleep well."
"I didn't," Claire admitted, pouring herself a glass of water.
Her mother dried her hands and turned to face her, an expectant look on her face. "What's on your mind?"
Claire hesitated, leaning against the counter. "Cassy called last night. There's going to be a class reunion."
Her mother raised an eyebrow. "A reunion? That sounds nice. Are you going?"
"I don't know," Claire said, tracing circles on the rim of her glass. "It feels… complicated."
"Why would it be complicated?" her mother asked, folding her arms. "You've always spoken fondly about your school days. And from what I remember, you were close to your classmates."
"I was," Claire said softly. "But it's been so long. What if things are different now? What if… I'm different?"
Her mother stepped closer, placing a hand on Claire's shoulder. "Of course, you've changed. Everyone does. But that doesn't mean those connections are gone. Sometimes, revisiting the past can remind us of who we were before life got so hectic."
Claire smiled faintly, appreciating her mother's wisdom. "Maybe you're right."
"I know I'm right," her mother said with a wink. "Now, sit down. Breakfast is almost ready."
After breakfast, Claire retreated to her room, shutting the door behind her. She sat by the window, staring out at the quiet street. She thought about her classmates, the memories they shared, and the secrets she had kept.
Her thoughts inevitably drifted to Noah. She hadn't expected to see him again—especially not like this. Their encounter at the secret place had left her shaken, and the idea of facing him in a room full of people felt overwhelming.
Claire shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. She picked up her phone and scrolled through her contacts, stopping at Cassy's name. She hesitated for a moment before hitting the call button.
"Claire! Did you decide?" Cassy's cheerful voice came through instantly.
"I'll come," Claire said, surprising even herself with how steady she sounded.
"Really? That's great!" Cassy exclaimed. "I knew you wouldn't let me down. It's going to be so much fun!"
"I hope so," Claire said, forcing a small laugh.
"It will be," Cassy assured her. "And don't worry—I'll be there to make sure everything goes smoothly. Besides, it's not like you're walking into an ambush. These are people who care about you."
Claire nodded, even though Cassy couldn't see her. "Thanks, Cass. I appreciate it."
"Anytime," Cassy said warmly. "Oh, and don't forget to dress to impress. You're Claire Harper, after all."
Claire rolled her eyes but couldn't help smiling. "I'll see you there."
After ending the call, Claire set her phone down and leaned back in her chair. The decision was made, but the unease in her chest hadn't disappeared. She knew the reunion wasn't just about reconnecting with old friends—it was also about confronting the parts of her past she had tried to leave behind.
But for better or worse, she was ready to face it.