Chapter 4 — Grace’s Advice

Clara

The soft hum of the city filtered through the slightly open window of Clara’s apartment, underscored by the occasional honking of a distant car. The skyline glimmered with the lights of countless buildings, each one a testament to someone’s ambition. Clara sat cross-legged on her sleek gray sofa, absently twirling her engraved mechanical pencil between her fingers. A glass of red wine balanced precariously on the armrest. Across from her, Grace sprawled comfortably in an overstuffed armchair, her vibrant orange dress a striking contrast to the muted tones of the room.