Claire's POV
Returning home in this state was shameful and painful — but I planned to drag it out for as long as possible.
I stood in front of my door like stepping through it would bring me to another world entirely.
That morning, when I'd left Louis' place, I'd contemplated getting a hotel, scraping together some cash to find my own footing somewhere. But nothing beats the comfort of your own home. Nothing ever did.
I could only hope my mother and grandmother would not find out I was pregnant.
I knew I had to keep it — whether Louis wanted it or not. And I wouldn't be telling him either. I was done with the push and pull, the endless tugging between us.
Done. Officially done.
"Mum!" I called as I stepped into the house, hauling my box in behind me. "Grandma."
Silence.
They had to be home somewhere. Maybe they'd stepped out briefly.
