[ Claire does feel that sentiment, and she thinks of Wrench, Louie, Sandor—others who have left with no chance to say goodbye. It doesn't stop her either, but she's also used to it. An unfortunate thing, maybe, to be able to take in stride because people have always come and gone from her life so easily. ]

I miss some of our Solvunn Summond so much. [ She sighs softly, but continues. ] The way I was raised helps, I think. I was the one disappearing all the time. [ And she learned how not to get close, how to remain superficial acquaintances, and when she was older, unattached lovers. But that isn't the way she wants to be, here. She's had real happiness, and now she'll accept nothing less. ] I try to see eeryone as often as I can, spend time with all of you so that if that happens, I'll have plenty to remember.

[ She's more eager to listen to Julia speak of her relationship, and soon Claire's smiling, and it turns into an excited grin for her. ]

Good for not letting a manipulation come between the two of you. [ It's a relief; they make one another happy, and it's wonderful to see on Julia's face. ] What are you planning? A nice Nocwich weekend or something in the Horizon?