Chapter 21

• Claire’s
• “Yes, ma. I’m really okay, and besides, Kate will be there to accompany me,” I sighed as I explained to my mom. Lying to her wasn’t my intention, but I really needed to do this. If I told her I’d be going alone, she’d just worry even more and might not even let me go.
• “I just want to make sure, hija. You know I don’t really like those retreats. They’re too risky, and you don’t even know the people you’re going with. They’re strangers. I don’t want to sound judgmental, but I’m just being careful,” my mom explained at length. Her voice laced with worry and disapproval.