"Claire, what is wrong?" I looked at her and began telling her my sob story. It all started a few months ago. Gran called and left a message for me to call her back. I didn't do it. I was still mad about her and mom, and I could not bring myself to call her back. My roommate said she sounded fine, so I just ignored the call. I was going to call her back, but then midterms started, and then it was spring break, and I was planning on going to the beach, and I knew she was going to want me to come home. I was so tired of always being dependable. I just wanted to have some fun. Then mom called and told me Gran was in the hospital. The guilt was too much to bear. I should have called her back, and I could have gone to see her at spring break. I just didn't understand that she needed me. Annie grabbed both of my hands and looked deep in my eyes and said, "Claire, you have not idea what your grandmother wanted. Maybe she just was calling to say hello. Maybe she just was thinking about you. She was young once. I am sure she did not mind you not calling back. Claire, you need to be strong now. Your Gran and your mom are going to need you, and getting bogged down in needless guilt helps no one." I dried my eyes and nodded my head in agreement. We walked back inside, and I sat down with my pudding, hot dog, and cola and finished eating.

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

Once I was done, I stood, and Annie smiled at me and said. "I am off duty and headed home. Try not to worry so much, Claire. We can talk more tomorrow during my break if you want." I thanked Annie, and before I could help myself, I had given her one of my bear hugs. I smiled and walked toward the elevator. I got in, pushed two, and watched Annie as the doors closed. She smiled at me with a look of relief. As I waited on the elevator, I thought what a kind person Annie was. It never failed to amaze me how kind people can be when you need them most.