It doesn't help to hear her say that. Abby thought it'd bring the relief of having broken through a seal; it has, but now everything behind it is pouring out and she has to try and keep her chin above it. She has to look up and see Clarisse sitting frozen still, clenched muscle evident in the blunt line of her neck and jaw, and the grief setting down on her like a weight trying to snap her in half.

Abby's mouth feels tacky, like she needs to drink water. She's dimly aware that her and Clarisse probably haven't eaten much of anything, all day. She saw Clarisse take those few spoonfuls of breakfast but that was hours ago, hours of searching ago. They've been tearing this fucking place apart for somebody they both knew was already gone.

She wants to say she's sorry but she can't. Not because she isn't, but because it won't come out, and because she feels sort of wild right now, more angry than upset. Maybe even the same way Clarisse was feeling before when she nearly hit her.

She's angry at Ellie. It's a nice, safe way to be.

It's starting to really come down outside. It's the only sound there is and Abby reaches out under the cover of it, putting her hand on Clarisse's arm and squeezing. She doesn't do anything else just yet, just — tethers them, silently.