Chapter 30. Heart of Stone

Days trickle by, and Claire remains with Lara. She continues to insist, despite Lara's various attempts to push her away. She keeps observing her friend, knowing that her happy facade will not hold up for too long. Her instincts were right. After a couple of days, Lara falls back into her depressive state.

In truth, her previous confession did not warrant her prolonged state of melancholy. Claire has done everything humanly possible to keep her happy, but sometimes, it is almost as if Lara cannot help herself.

Something is wrong. Definitely.

The soft murmur of conversation fills the air as Lara and Claire sit across from each other in a quaint café, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the scent of pastries. Claire's eyes are fixed intently on Lara, her expression a mixture of concern and curiosity as she leans in closer, her voice soft but insistent.

"Lara," Claire begins, her tone gentle, yet probing. "I know what