Cassidy glanced at the rearview mirror as she drove, watching Claire kick her feet softly in her car seat, humming to herself like she always did after school.
When they stopped at a red light, Cassidy spoke gently. "Sweetheart, Mommy needs to go to Geneva tomorrow. For work."
Claire looked up, curious. "Geneva?"
Cassidy nodded, keeping her tone light. "Just for a few days. There was an accident at Mommy's company there, and I need to be there to help."
Claire was quiet for a beat. "Will I go with you?"
Cass shook her head with a soft smile. "No, baby. You're going to stay here. Do you think you'll be okay without Mommy for a few days?"
Claire nodded confidently. "I'm big now. I can do it."
Cassidy reached over at the next stoplight and gently brushed a hand over Claire's hair. "I know you can. You're so brave."
Claire beamed at the praise.
