Chapter 46

The rain pounded against the roof, a relentless rhythm that mirrored the chaos in Clara's mind. She reached out and turned on the light, the warm glow filling the room as she pulled herself out of bed. Crossing the room, she shut the window to block out the chill. Her eyes fell on the empty and quiet house as she turned back. Sleep was the last thing on her mind. Clara grabbed a jacket and slipped it on before stepping out of her bedroom. She walked into the small study across the hall, where a corner was set up with an easel, some paints, and some sketch pads—materials her aunt had sent her just days ago. When the package arrived, Clara immediately understood Katrina's intentions. But her hand… She clenched her fist instinctively, looking down at it. Slowly, she approached the easel and pulled off the cloth draped over it. She sat down and picked up a paintbrush, dipping it into the colors with practiced ease. Yet, the moment the tip of the brush touched the paper, her ha