Maya crossed to her and pulled her into a hug. "You're going to be amazing. You're always amazing when you're scared and pretending not to be."
Despite everything, Eve smiled against her friend's shoulder. "I'm absolutely terrified."
"I know," Maya said. "But you're going anyway. That's what makes it brave."
They held each other for a moment, and Eve felt grounded by the familiar warmth of old friendship....the reminder that she was still herself, still Eve, regardless of supernatural politics and Court factions.
"We're planning Aunt's funeral," Maya said when they pulled apart. "Elena and me. While you're at the meeting. We'll coordinate with the funeral home, arrange the service, handle all the details so you don't have to."
Eve's throat tightened. "You don't have to...."
"We want to," Elena said firmly. "Let us help. Let us do this one thing so you can focus on everything else you're carrying."
"Okay," Eve managed. "Thank you. Both of you."
