CLAIRE

I woke up to sunlight streaming through Julian's windows and his arm still around me and for a moment I just lay there, feeling the warmth of him beside me, the solid reality of his presence.

Then I remembered what day it was. Showcase day, my stomach immediately tied itself in knots. Julian stirred beside me, his eyes opening slowly.

"Morning," he said, his voice rough with sleep.

"Morning," I replied. "I can't believe it's today."

"You're going to be amazing," Julian said, like it was a simple fact.

I wanted to believe him. We got up and I went to my room to shower and get ready. Nina...