AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Claire turned in Eva's arms, tears shining in her eyes. "That's exactly what I needed to hear. I just don't know if I'll ever fully heal."
Eva nodded. "You'll keep healing, and then something will happen, and it'll set you back. But you'll still keep healing. And I'll be there every step of the way. I'm not going anywhere."
"I hope not," Claire said. "I'm glad we can be so honest with each other, Eva. I'm glad I met you."
"Me too," Eva said. She leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips.
Claire's hand went up and tangled in Eva's dark hair, kissing her back. They held the embrace for a moment, enjoying the tender connection between them.
When they pulled apart, Eva's smile was radiant. "You are incredible."
"So are you," Claire said. She rested her head on Eva's shoulder.
They sat like that, gazing up at the stars, until the tea was cold.
Finally, Eva said, "I hate to break the mood, but I should probably get you home. You have a cat to take care of."
Claire pouted. She didn't look happy about it. "I'm only a few blocks away. Would you want to stay over tonight? You can easily get to Sweet Delights in the morning. And I don't mind being woken up early. I could do some pre-dawn painting then."
"Well, if you're sure it's okay..." Eva said slowly.
Claire nodded eagerly. "More than okay," she assured her.
They finished their tea, then made their way back inside. Eva grabbed her bag, a change of clothes, and some toiletries so that she would be ready for work tomorrow. Then she followed Claire down to the car. It didn't take long to get back to Claire's cottage.
Something seemed to be weighing on Claire's mind though as they got ready for bed. "What is it?" Eva asked her. "Is it too soon? I can go back home if it is."
Claire gave her a shaky smile. "No, it's not that at all actually. With the way Peter reacted, I'm worried about Abby," Claire admitted quietly. "Do you think...could he be abusive towards her?"
Eva's expression turned grave. She hesitated before replying gently, "I can't say for certain, but honestly I wouldn't be surprised. His need to control feels very aggressive."
Claire picked up Daisy and looked out the bedroom window toward Peter and Abby's house. Eva came and looked with her. Their house was dark, and she was also worried. "I wish I could do more to help her," Claire said. "She's so sweet and we've spoken a few times, but it clearly seems to upset Peter."
"Just being a supportive friend is huge for Abby right now," Eva reminded her. "If she opens up again, you could suggest counseling or other resources?"
Claire nodded. "Hopefully we're wrong. But, if we're not, I'll be here for her."
"I will too. She's always welcome at the cafe. You could bring her in sometime," Eva offered. She expected Abby to turn down any invitation to come to the cafe, but she always held out hope.
Claire leaned against her and let Daisy go on the bed. "I think that's enough darkness for one night."
Eva agreed. "Sorry, I didn't mean to ruin the mood."
Claire shook her head. "You didn't. I asked and you answered. You never have to apologize for telling me the truth."
Eva pulled her in closer. "I'm so glad to have you." She kissed her gently.
"Me too," Claire murmured.
Then they settled down into the blankets, cuddling close together. Daisy curled up at the foot of the bed and quickly fell asleep. Eva reached over and clicked off the bedside lamp, then settled back into the warmth and comfort of the bed. Claire's body felt so perfect against her, so warm and solid. Eva was more grateful than she could express for Claire's presence in her life.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
The next morning Eva hummed along to the radio as she restocked the pastry case, preparing for the influx of customers that would soon be stopping in. After a great night with Claire she was happy, energized, and ready for the day.
The cheery ringing of bell over the front door signaled the first customer had arrived. "Good morning, welcome in!" Eva called over her shoulder, expecting to see one of their regulars.
Instead, she froze in shock as she looked up to see Liz standing there awkwardly. She'd never hoped to see her ex again, especially not in the cafe.
