Chapter 36 - veronica apologized without asking clara to carry her guilt
Veronica wrote Clara a letter at twenty.
Not because contact ended.
Because speaking had become harder after another small stroke.
The letter said:
I used to believe family wealth existed to keep the family together.
What I meant was that money could reward people who stayed close and punish people who resisted.
I did not call it punishment then.
I called it loyalty.
Clara read slowly.
Veronica continued:
Your mother taught me something by refusing.
Consent that can be withdrawn without punishment is the only kind worth claiming.
Clara stopped there.
Then found the final paragraph.
Do not use my regret to make me easier to love.
You are allowed whatever relationship with me fits the truth you know.
Clara folded the letter.
She did not cry.
Then drove to see Veronica the next weekend.
Not out of obligation.
May you like
She wanted to.
That distinction was the entire story.
