That evening, Percy was the one putting Claire to bed. He read her a story, as he'd done ever since she'd arrived.
When he closed the book, wished her a good night, and got up to leave, though, Claire grabbed his sleeve.
– Can you stay for five more minutes ? she asked.
More words than she'd said in a week. Percy smiled, sat down next to the bed.
– Of course.
He wasn't sure of it, but he thought he saw her smile back a little. She curled up into a ball, resting her head on her knees, and for a time they both stayed silent.