Chapter 42 - chloe leaves home
When Chloe turned eighteen, she was accepted into medical school.
The night before she left, she and Claire sat on the back porch.
Two suitcases were waiting near the door.
Claire looked at them.
"You're really leaving."
Chloe laughed.
"That's generally what college students do."
Claire smiled.
"I'm not ready."
"I know."
They sat quietly.
Finally, Chloe asked,
"Are you scared?"
"Terrified."
"Of what?"
"That I didn't teach you enough."
Chloe turned toward her.
"Mom."
Claire looked at her.
"You taught me everything."
"I hope so."
"No."
Chloe reached for her hand.
"You taught me that being strong doesn't mean doing everything alone."
Claire's eyes filled.
"You listened."
"I always listened."
Chloe hugged her.
Then she whispered,
"Don't be sad."
"I'm your mother."
"So?"
"Being your mother means I reserve the right to be dramatic."
Chloe laughed.
They stayed there for a long time.
The next morning, Claire watched Chloe drive away.
She cried.
Her father stood beside her.
"You okay?"
"No."
He smiled.
"Good."
Claire laughed through her tears.
"Why is that good?"
"Because it means you did your job."
Claire watched the car disappear.
She finally understood.
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Protecting Chloe did not mean keeping her close.
It meant giving her enough courage to leave.
