What Tomorrow Brings (2025)

[bunniefuu]

Dr. McAdams says this will help.



Writing. Writing. Writing.

(sighs)

Writing.



Let's see.



(sighs)

Nope.



Okay, Clara.

Let's try this.

It had been a good summer,

and my senior year

of high school

was about to begin.

Earlier that summer,

my band won a contest,

and the prize was to open

for a huge concert.

Until I'm sour

Of course, no one there

would be interested

in seeing us perform.



Sweet and sour,

trust me I'll devour you

if you get

on the wrong side of me

Be the best

as long as you don't test me

Feed me what I want to hear

I'll agree, ooh

Ca-ca-ca call me

sweet and sour

Ca-ca-ca

call me sweet and sour

Ca-ca-ca call me

sweet and sour

Ca-ca-ca call me

sweet and sour

Guys, what the f*ck?

We're performing in front

of 20,000 people next week.

I... I thought it sounded great.

Chill out, Jason.

Really?

You thought that was great?

Well...

I'll see you on Monday.

I can't believe

you're leaving this week.

Well, my sister's

getting married,

so... yeah,

I'm going away this weekend.

Stop being an as*h*le, Jason.

It's supposed to be fun.

Have a great time, Nikki.

And congratulate

your sister for me.

And text me lots of pictures.



So, that's it for today?



Jason had a way with words.



I'll walk you home.

Sure, Ruby will be here soon.



Senior year,

can you believe it?

I mean, maybe, just maybe,

this is my year

to be homecoming king.

Oh, you dream big, Noah.

Can you imagine?

Me? Homecoming king?

I mean, I'd try

to save a dance for you,

if no one was watching.

I have an image to protect.

Oh, you really know

how to sweet talk a girl.

By the way,

you sounded great today.

Noah.

I always sound great.

I mean,

I sing because it's fun.

Nikki gets it, you get it,

I mean,

I'm excited about the concert,

it's a cool gig,

but I'm pretty much

done with Jason.

I'm with you.



Hey, Princess Ruby.

Hey, Prince Noah.

That's King Noah.

Does have a nice ring to it.

Can I go with you

on your date tomorrow?

How about ice cream next week?

Yay.

Do we--

Do we even need Jason?

(rimshot)



How was band practice?

Mom only engaged in small talk.

With the exception of me,

she had shut everyone

out of her world.

It was good,

next week is going

to be really exciting for us.

Your dad would be

so proud of you.

It's only three songs.



I've... I've been thinking

a lot about my health,

my well-being,

and I have

an opportunity, Clara.

Really?

That's great, Mom.

What's great, Mom?

I'm talking with Clara.



(sighs)



So, I'll need to go away

for a little while.

But...



I mean, I know you've got

school starting up soon,

and Ruby will need

probably lots of--

If you can get

the help you need,

don't worry about things here,

I've got it.

I just haven't

been fair to you, Clara.

God knows I have not been

a good mom to Ruby.

I just can't continue like this.

I know you struggle, Mom.

Can you tell me about the place?

The place?

The place you're going to.

Oh.

Only that I've been

reading a lot about it

and I think

it's exactly what I need.

I'll leave you the car keys

and the credit card.

When are you leaving?

Sunday.

In two days?

Ruby's birthday?

You'll make it special for her,

you always do.

I will.



Just, make something up.

She probably won't

even notice that I'm gone.



I'll figure it out.

And I'm excited for you,

I really am.

Thank you, Clara.

Mom was never the same

after dad died.

That was almost six years ago.



I'm sorry for getting sick.

I'm sorry too, Daddy.

Mommy's not strong like you

and she's gonna need your help.

I just wish

she was better with Ruby.

I know.

You need to be there for Ruby.

And Mom?

Ruby first, always.

Understand?

Yes, Daddy.



(chuckles)

How much of the bottle

did you use?



Are you ever planning

on coming out?

(giggles)

You think

you got enough bubbles?

Never.

What?

Don't do that again!

I knew she would.



Oh, I'm going to get you

for that, missy.



Someone is turning nine

on Sunday!

I can't wait.



(giggling)



(giggling)



The next morning, I took a run.



I was feeling optimistic.

My mom had definitely thrown

a wrench in my plans,

but I could handle it.

Ruby and I do great together,

and maybe Mom would finally

get the help she needed.



Such a beautiful morning.

Little chilly.

Are you all packed?

Almost.

Well... will you need

a ride to the airport?

No, Clara,

I've got it all covered.

Any idea

how long you'll be away for?

We'll talk later.

Good talk, Mom.

Good talk.

There was a time

my mom was happy,

when she loved,

when she was beautiful.

There was a time

we were family.

Ruby does not

remember those days.

I miss those days.

(restaurant background chatter)

Don't you like it?

Oh, yeah, it's good.

What's wrong, Clara?

Just my mom.

Is she losing it again?

I don't know,

she's going away for a while.

For what?

Help.

Where's she going?

I don't know.

For how long?

I don't know.

Did she give you any details?

I don't know, Noah.

I'm sorry.

No, I'm sorry,

too many questions.

Is Ruby going?

I'm sorry, too many questions.

I wish...

Whatever,

I just hope she gets some help.

I do, too.

I wish she wasn't so selfish.

I mean, I know

I should expect it from her,

but I wish...

It's just frustrating.

I feel horrible for you.

And Ruby.

This is just not fair.

Maybe this time she'll find

the answer she needs?

Maybe.

Hey, we don't have to go

to a movie today.

Yeah, I think

I need to be with Ruby.

Well, let's try to enjoy dinner.

Forget about everything else,

just for now.

For me?

Deal.

You know, for a guy,

you're pretty understanding.

(chuckles)

I've handled stress forever,

but Mom's timing

was making it more challenging.



I didn't want

to take it out on Noah,

he's the only boyfriend

I've ever had,

and I've known him

since he moved here

in second grade.



Other than Ruby,

he was my best friend.



I promise to be

better company next time.

Good thing you're hot.

I suppose it is.

If I win homecoming king,

I can't promise

I'll be this understanding.

I'll take my chances.

(chuckling)





I can't right now.

Happy birthday, Princess Ruby.

I got everything ready,

birthday girl.

You know what to do.



One, two, three, four



I can't help

but feel irritated

every single time he walks by

Time he walks by

His goofy little smirk

and his baby blues

catching my eye

Catching my eye

But when he looks,

I scoff and he laughs it off

but he thinks

that I can't see

He makes me so mad

and I want him so bad

How'd he get

such a hold on me?

He's not a real blonde

and I won't respond

I wanna hear him

say my name on repeat

He can stop and stare,

baby, I don't care

Just as long

as he's looking at me

When he walks my way,

I say go away

But I hope

he'll stay right there

My heart's doing me wrong,

singing silly love songs

For fake blonde hair

Okay, Ruby,

what do you want to do today?

Hmm.

Cinnamon pretzels and a movie?

Deal.

-And a slushy?

-Deal.

-And a...

-Don't push your luck!

-A cake?

-Well, duh!

Mom home?

So, about Mom,

she's gone away

for a little bit.

Where?

Well--

Did she leave a present?

Or a card?

Actually, she did leave a card.

And I have a fun day

planned with it,

just you and me.

You aren't going anywhere,

right?

No, never.

Yay.

(chuckles)



I love it!

I'm so glad you like it.



(sighs)

I remember the day

my father died.

He had come home

from the hospital

the day before.

He wanted to celebrate

one more birthday with Ruby.

He was so fragile.

He passed away

in his sleep that night.

Wake up!

I remember Mom

yelling at him to get up.

-Get up! Wake up!

-She was so angry.

I was devastated,

I loved my dad.

I was 11 years old,

and this was her third birthday.

The ambulance came

and took his body.

Mom went back into her bedroom

and didn't come out

the rest of the day.

The whole day.

All I could do

was go into Ruby's bedroom

and hold her

while she was sleeping.

You need any help with that?

No!

Every year I made sure

Ruby's birthday was special.

Always just the two of us.

There was no one else.

I love it.

I'm so happy you like it.

Do I look grown up?

Oh, you look too grown up.

I love it, I love it, I love it!

(giggles)

Ruby was thrilled with the day,

I spoiled her.



Did you really think

you were only getting

one birthday present?



Peaches!

You're giving me Peaches?

I want you to have it.

Peaches got me through

a lot of hard times.

But it's from Dad.

It's your favorite.



You are my favorite.



I had so much fun today:

The movie,

the dinner,

the cake,

my new dress.

I still can't believe

everyone in the restaurant

sang "Happy Birthday" to me.

It was the best birthday.

I'm so glad.

You deserved it.

Now, get some sleep.

School tomorrow.

(groans)



Hey, I know it's a bit late,

but I do have

band rehearsal tonight.

Now?

I hate being

home alone at night.

I know, I really don't wanna go,

but I promise

to be back home soon, okay?

Fine.

In an instant,

I had ruined her perfect day.

One, two, one, two--

Hold up, hold up.

Clara.

Are you okay?

I'm... I'm sorry,

but I have to go.

Are you kidding?

We just started.

Clara, are you okay?

Ruby's home alone, I...

I need to be with her,

I'm really sorry.

Kids are always left home alone.

I'm sure she's fine.

Clara, we have to rehearse,

the show is in two days.

That is our

only focus right now.

Don't you think she'll be okay

for a little longer?

I have to go.

Okay, what the f*ck is going on?



I--

I'm sorry.

Clara,

you don't have to apologize.



Is that it?

How the hell

are we gonna find

a replacement for you

in two days?

Replacement?

These are her songs.

Her voice

won us the competition.



Could you just try to get

through the show in two days?



You know I have to go.



f*ck this!

Let's get out of here, girl.



I was angry with myself.

What was I thinking?

I knew love from a mom and dad.

Ruby never did.

I couldn't sleep.

Oh, I shouldn't have left you.

Please don't do it again.

Ruby, I promise.

Hey.

Forgive me?

Yes.



Can you get some sleep?

I'll try.

I did have a lot of sugar today.



I suppose I shouldn't

have been surprised.

A week had passed

since I backed out

of the concert.



I was walking down the hallway,

when I felt a massive,

violent push

against my shoulders.

My face smashed

against the wall.

I remember

putting my hand to my face

and turning around

and seeing him.



He was in my face,

screaming at me.



I remember closing my eyes

and in an instant,

he was on the floor.



I was speechless.

I was numb.

I didn't say a word.



Clara, are you okay? Clara?

Please, let me help you.

Clara?

Clara!



I ran home... I think.

I remember changing my clothes.

I was in shock.

My ears were ringing,

it was so loud.

I found Mom's hangover glasses.

I had to get it together,

had to get Ruby from school.

(giggles)

Nice glasses.



What happened?



Are you okay?

I'm okay,

some boys are just stupid.

Who did it?

It doesn't matter.

Trust me,

he got the worst of it.



I don't like

anybody hurting you, Clara.

I know.

Nobody better even think

about hurting you.



Now, let's get home,

I need some ice.

And hugs.

Tag, you're it!

(Ruby giggles)



We spent that evening

on the couch

watching silly videos.



Holding Ruby

was always comforting.



I just hope the shock

and pain would ease.



Getting your face

smashed into a wall

definitely leaves a mark

for days.

Makeup helps.

It was career day

at school for us seniors.

Hi, you guys,

my name is Lindsay Andrews,

and I am a lawyer.

And that is when I saw Lindsay.

She talked to the class

about being a lawyer.

She looked and sounded so smart.

And she seemed... nice.

Just something in her voice.

And I specialize in family law.

So, this deals with anything

from marriage and divorces

to, uh... to, uh, custody.

Most of the kids

looked really bored,

or were talking to each other.

Lindsay started talking about--

Guardianships.

So, yes, question in the back.

How old do you have to be

to be a guardian?

You have to be 18 years old,

but that's

just the beginning, right?

So, the court's gonna check

for a myriad of other--

I was fascinated.

I did not know

it was a legal word.

My dad would always say

I was Ruby's guardian angel.

...need to provide

physical and mental,

and emotional support,

I wish the other kids

would shut up.

...and shelter.

Does that make sense?

She was so--

Does anybody have any--

Everything I hoped to be.

Mrs. Andrews?

I really liked

what you had to say,

you're really smart.

Oh, thank you!

What's your name?

Clara, my name's Clara.

Hi, Clara, I'm Lindsay,

it's very nice to meet you.

Thank you for asking a question.

I, you know, wasn't really sure

that anybody

was listening, so...

Do you wanna be

a lawyer someday?

I'm just trying to make it

through my senior year.

I was hoping to learn more

about guardians.

Sure, yeah,

I'd be happy to tell you more.

Maybe you can swing by

my office one day?

Tomorrow?

I could come by

during my lunch hour.

I have to pick up

my sister from school

but only if you're not too busy.

You know what?

Absolutely,

I... I look forward to it.

Thank you, seriously, thank you.



She just met me

and she was willing

to give me time.

And I was excited

to see her the next day.



I know my face upset Ruby.

I didn't want her

worrying about me,

she's my responsibility.

It's not enough

to just make sure

she gets to school on time.

It's not enough to just exist.

She deserves so much happiness.

She deserves so much more.



Gimme a "T"!

T!

Gimme an "A"!

A!

Gimme a "C"!

C!

Gimme an "O"!

O!

What does that spell?

Taco?

Taco night!

Whoa, easy there.

So, how was your day at school?

There was a fight

on the playground.

Really?

Shirley Matthews

beat up three boys.

At once!

Is she in your grade?

She's in my class.

Everyone's really nice to her,

especially when

she's on her period.

Well, how old is Shirley?

Ten.

She uses tampons.

I think you put them

in your belly button.

Close.

Is that Noah?

No, I made a new friend today.

Oh, I bought something

for your room.

What?

I'll show you after dinner.

Eat up.



How was your day at school?

I got a bit of food in my mouth.

I hated Ruby's bedroom.

Mom didn't like

anything on the walls,

but Mom was away.



Bruise looked angry.

I had to be my best that day.



I took extra time on my makeup

and found something

more professional to wear.



Mrs. Andrews?

Welcome, Clara!

Hi!

She welcomed me

with the biggest hug.

I wasn't expecting that.

I needed it.

I needed this day, this moment.

She had brought in

a special lunch,

just for me.

I couldn't believe it.



Middle Eastern food.

I'm more used to salads,

tacos, and burgers.

She was so excited

to share it with me.

Was this for real?



I tried everything.

Actually, I devoured everything.

It was so delicious.



She must have thought

I hadn't eaten for days.

I certainly had not

been eating well.



So, tell me a little bit

about yourself.

Well, I'm a senior.

Oh, you already know that.

I have a little sister, Ruby.

Tell me about Ruby.

She just turned nine,

she's the sweetest

person on Earth.

She's my best friend.

My whole world.

Oh!

Look at the ear.

What about your parents?

My dad died six years ago.

I'm so sorry.

He was a great dad.

He was the best dad.

Well, I bet he'd

be very proud of you.

That must've been

really hard on your mom.

He had ALS,

it was a brutal couple of years.



I have so many

wonderful memories of my dad.

I cherished

every second with him.

My favorite memory

was my fourth grade

daddy/daughter dance.

He bought me a new dress,

he took me out

for a fancy dinner,

he made me feel like a princess.

There was no greater daddy,

and I felt like

the luckiest kid in the world.

He was a brilliant engineer.

He loved music.

Even had a studio

in our basement.

And, yeah,

Mom was never the same.

How so?

She just stopped...

caring.



I wish Ruby knew

what she was like

before dad got sick.

Do you have grandparents?

Or, aunts or uncles?

No one.

Are you comfortable with me

asking some questions?

-No, I'm fine with it.

-Okay.

Clara, I... I have to ask

about the bruise on your face.

Oh, that happened

at school, um...

Some boys were roughhousing

in the hallway

and I got the best--

Clara,

you can be honest with me.

Really.



Tell me a bit more

about your mom.

Um... she's away right now,

training for a new job.

So, it's, uh...

it's just you

and Ruby in the house, then?

Yeah, for a bit.

But I'm used to it, Ruby's easy.

When does she return?

From what?

When does your mom

return from her training?

Oh, soon.

Clara, you are...

You are one brave woman.



Who's that?

That is my Graham.

We've been married

for two years,

and he's my best friend.

He looks nice, like you.

Well, I'm lucky,

I got a good one.

Well, I think

he's the lucky one.



Do you have anybody special

in your life other than Ruby?

Noah.

I've known him

since second grade.

He's really nice.

Ruby likes him, too.



What did you want to know

about guardianships?

Can a big sister be a guardian?

Uh, yeah, yes,

the short answer is yes.

You know,

the state will always look

for what's in the best interest

of the child, right?

Lindsay listed all the things

that a court would look at.

The guardian's mental

and physical health, check.

The child's preference,

that's an easy one.

The ability to provide shelter,

food, clothing, medical care.

Check, check, check.

All checks.

Is... is this making sense?

It really does.

I'm sorry, I need to go.

Well, let me drop you off.

Oh, it's fine.

Clara, let me drop you off.

Okay.



I was mad at myself

for not being there

to pick up Ruby from school.

Ruby?



What are you doing in here?

Do you think she loves me?

Mom?

Of course she loves you.

I love you, Mom.

I love you, Ruby.



Mom wasn't well.

Perhaps she really

did not love Ruby.



The only person

I know that loves me is you.

I promise not to do anything

to ever make you mad at me.



There's nothing

you could ever, ever do

that would make me mad at you.

And I promise I will never,

ever let you feel alone.



We'll stay in Mama's room,

okay?

Okay.

-Promise?

-Promise.

Now, who wants to give me

a makeover?

I do!



Ruby's makeup skills

were legendary.

I loved these moments.



Saturday mornings were special.

How do you stay so tiny?

We would go to the diner.

Ruby loves hash browns.

"Love" is not

a strong enough word.



She's so cute!

There wasn't a hint of jealousy.

Everything was going well.

We had settled into a routine.

Until...

(retching noise)

I threw up!

-(retching)

-Oh, baby!

(retching)

I don't feel good.

You're burning up.

Let's get you to the bathroom.

Oh.

I'm not good with vomit.

The sound of it.

But this is my baby sister.



Come on, baby. You're okay.

I hate throwing up.

(retching noise)

I know, baby.

Try to relax.

I'm sorry about my sheets.

Don't worry about that.

I'll get it all cleaned up.

(retching noise)

Well. Somebody doesn't have

school tomorrow.

My head hurts.

I'm gonna go fill up the tub,

come on.



(water gushing)

(water dripping)

Clara. My head hurts,

and my throat is really sore.

I bet, baby.

I'm sure throwing up

made it hurt really bad.

But I'll buy

your favorite popsicles,

and I'm just gonna

cuddle you all day.

-Promise?

-I love you.



Around noon, it started again.



104.5.



If anyone is listening,

I could really use a hand here.



I felt so useless.

I was lost.



Should I take her

to the doctor?

The emergency room?



This is what a mom

was supposed to do.

This is also what a guardian

is required to do.



I was so scared.





98.6!

I had never been so happy,

so relieved.

So... exhausted.

Lindsay, I-I'm so sorry.

Are you okay?

I am.

Ruby was sick.

Is she okay?

Now she is.

I should have called you.

You should have.

I was worried.

-Does your mom know?

-No.

Do you want me to come over?

Do you need anything?

No, we just need

to catch up on rest today.

Would you be up for breakfast

tomorrow morning?

Can I bring Ruby?

Of course!

And call if you need

anything today, understood?

Understood.

Tell Ruby that I hope

she's feeling better

and that I can't wait

to meet her,

and I'm bringing Graham.

That sounds great!

I'll see you tomorrow.

Ruby was so excited

that morning.

She needed more people

in her life,

good people.

Graham, this is Clara,

and this must be Ruby!

It's nice to meet you,

Ms. Andrews.

Oh, please, call me Lindsay.

Nice to meet you, Graham.

I must warn you both,

Ruby is a bit of a hugger.

Amazing. So am I!

(Ruby squeals, Graham laughs)

Okay, how 'bout

you guys go outside

and have a little bit of fun,

and we will wait

for the table?

-Yeah?

-Mm-hm.

Let's go!

Well, she looks

like she's feeling better.

She is.

You do look exhausted.

I'm okay.

I can show you both

to your table now.

Thank you.

And I can also

take your coats.

That would be awesome,

thank you so much.

Thank you.

(soft music, indistinct chatter)

Could you bring us some tea?

-Of course.

-Okay. Thank you.



Clara, I'm worried about you.

Did you mom come home yet?

-Promise, I'm okay.

-That's not what I asked.

Did she?

No.

All right, look.

You're doing a lot

on your own here.

Okay? Everything

that we talk about

is confidential.

Do you know what that means?

I think so.

It means that

it stays between us.

Um, I would never do anything

to hurt you or hurt Ruby,

but I have to--

I have to put this out there.

Are you protecting your mom?

Did she cause

the bruise on your face?

No, nothing like that.

That really did happen

at school.

This stupid boy

got angry with me, and...

I should have been

more honest about that.

Was this stupid boy Noah?

Oh--oh, no,

Noah would never hurt me.



Really, you would definitely

approve of Noah.

Okay, well...

I'm going to need to know more

about this stupid boy.

But for right now,

I really--

I think it's time

for your mom to come home.



-Thank you.

-Thank you!



Oh, my God.

Look at th--

are they skipping?

(Lindsay laughs)

Oh.

She's not really

training for a new job.

That's what she told me

to tell people.

She found a place

to get help.

Get better.

She left me

the keys to the car

and a credit card.

I'll try to be

more honest with you,

it's just...

I'm doing the best I can,

it's just, you know, a lot.

It's way too much.

It's way, way, way too much.

Okay? Look.

Graham and I are going

to be out of town

for an early Thanksgiving

with his parents,

but I want you to call me

if you need anything.

-You promise?

-I promise.

Giddyup, giddyup, giddyup!

(mock neighing sound)

(chuckling)

A throne for Her Majesty.

Look who's back.

-Hey.

-Hey.

So, Ruby tells me

that you are the greatest

singer in the world.

Wait, I didn't know

that you sang.

It's just for fun.

She won a huge contest--

Um, let's, um,

talk about something else.

I wanna hear more

about your singing.

So what do you do, Graham?

Besides give the best

piggybacks in the world?

(Ruby laughs)

I build houses.

And I also buy and restore

old buildings.

He has the world's

most wonderful imagination.

How old are the buildings?

The 1800s!

Wow. That's really old.

Wanna hear something cool?

The house where you live

was built by my grandfather.

Really?

Tell him he did a good job.

I'll be sure

to let him know.

How did you two meet?

Okay. Well, this is

sort of a crazy story.

I was walking

through Sparrow Market

and I was picking out

an orange,

and I must have picked

the wrong one or something,

because, of course,

all of the oranges come

toppling off of the shelf

and onto the floor,

and it's, it's mayhem,

and I look behind me,

and this guy,

this random dude,

is laughing at me.

It was a lot of oranges!

So after he stops laughing,

he comes over

and he helps me clean them up,

and, yeah,

that's how we met.

How could I not want

to marry him?

That's how you met?

It was love at first sight.

She has a way with oranges.

Oh, my God.

Like right out of a movie.

Your ring is beautiful.

How did Graham propose?

Yeah. How did he propose?

Well, we were walking

through a neighborhood

that we both loved,

and all of a sudden,

Graham stops.

And he gets on one knee

and he holds out this ring

and he says to me...

he says to me,

"This is where I want

to start my life with you."

And then he points behind me

and there's a big,

beautiful house

and it has

a "For Sale" sign on it,

and I turn back around,

and there's Graham

with a "Sold" sign in his hands,

and then he asks me

to marry him.

Wait.

He got you a ring and a house?

Yeah.

What are you all doing

after this?

No big plans.

How would you both like

to come see a project

I'm working on?

That'd be awesome!

Yeah, that really does

sound like fun.

Are you all ready to order?

-Oh.

-Oh, gosh!

-I...

-We haven't even looked

at the menu!

-Sorry.

-Five minutes, uh...

Not the one made for you.

No? Not the...

That was such a special day.

I don't know

who needed it more,

me or Ruby.



Lindsay and I talked

and watched Graham and Ruby.



They seemed like they had

known each other forever.

It was so comfortable

and so genuine.



But I was so tired.

Perhaps I was just

desperate to see something

that really wasn't there.



You're late.

I know. I'm sorry.

Good day at school?

Clara? Clara!



Whoo! Glad I caught you, Clara.

Ruby says

your mom's out of town?

Yeah, training for a new job.

It's taking longer

than she thought.

Well, I need to have Ruby's

parent/teacher conference soon.

I promise to let her know.

As long as it's

before the holidays.

Are the two of you home alone?

Uh, no, of course not.

Our Aunt Lindsay is, uh,

with us.

Aunt Lindsay's great.

Uncle Graham is even better.

Oh! Well, that's a relief.

Just be sure to have your mom

be in touch with me.



How come Noah isn't coming over?

I've just been busy

with Mom being away.



I like him.

He's nice to you.

And to me.

I know, it's just...

complicated.

I saw him today.

Where?

Some of the high school band

came and played at the school.

Did you talk to him?

Well, he said,

"What's up, Princess Ruby?"

So I said, "I haven't seen you

in forever,"

and Noah said,

"I'm sorry, I really am."

So I said, "Did you break up

with my sister?"

And he said,

"No, I just think

she wants some time

away from me."

Something like that.

I'm not sure.

But then, he said, "She might

have broken up with me,"

and gave a sad face, like this.

(Clara laughs)

So, I said, "I don't think so,

because she still has

all of your pictures up

in her room."

-You told him that?

-Yeah.

-And what happened next?

-The bell rang.



Being sick, Ruby missed

her second-favorite holiday,

Halloween.

I suppose one good thing

about the days after Halloween

is that candy goes on sale.

I may have outdone myself

this time.

I love this little girl so much.

Can I open my eyes?

(shuffling sounds)

Not yet.



I'm sorry you missed Halloween.

I am, too.

Open your eyes.



This looks amazing!



Now, enjoy your spaghetti

with...

Spaghetti with what?



Eyeballs!

And, of course,

a vampire's favorite drink...

(Ruby giggles)



Why are you staring at me?

I'm just so happy

you're better.

That was, like, a week ago.

I know.

I did miss out

on a lot of candy.

Or did you?

What do you mean?



Ruby loved the costume

I bought for her.

The cutest little hippie ever.

She came away

with more candy that evening

than any previous year

of trick-or-treating.

It will last.



Did not realize

how easy it is

to become so isolated in school.

And the world.

Did someone order

a pumpkin spice latte?

Your fave.

It's freezing out here.

I miss you.

I'm not giving up on you, Clara.

I'm beginning to.

What?

Give--give up on yourself?

I wish you would

let me help you.

You look so tired.

Gee, thanks.

That's not--

that's not what I meant.

You just look so stressed

and you seem so unhappy.

Not what I thought

senior year would be.

Tell me about it.

I didn't win a single vote

for homecoming king.

I heard you saw Ruby.

I did.

I miss her, too.

Do you really still keep

our pictures up in your room?

Do you just need time?

Can I stay here with you?

I like that.

A few days had passed

and I picked Ruby up

from school.

Winter definitely arrived early.

I had skipped school that day.

I had been skipping many days.

I was having trouble focusing.

Oh! And I got an A on spelling.

(indistinct reply)

I was having trouble

with everything.

Thank you for bringing

my gloves.

I was freezing at recess.

I'm making hot cocoa

when we get home.

Good idea.

And we could sleep in tomorrow.

How 'bout a movie night tonight?

Yes!

Movie night! Movie night!

If... you make the popcorn.

Movie night! Movie night!



It was such a fun evening,

just the two of us.

She could always make me laugh.

Her smile was the only

motivation I needed.

She has no idea

how many times she's saved me.

Ruby made the popcorn

and picked the movie.

We cuddled on the couch.

I let her stay up late

and she fell asleep

on the couch.

I brought pillows

and blankets from the bedroom

and joined her.

Then... dammit,

I hate this part.

I woke up

in the middle of the night

and realized

something was not right.

The house was cold.

We'd lost power.



I looked outside

and saw streetlights were on.



Oh, no.

This isn't good.

Maybe the lights would be on

in the morning?

I was beginning to crack.

No, I was cracking.

I felt like I was taking

one last breath

before jumping

into the deep end.

I'd used up all my prayers

when Ruby was sick.

But here we were,

together in a freezing home

with no power.

Some guardian angel I am.

I just lay there.

I recounted everything

Lindsay told me in her office.

In just a couple months,

I could no longer check

any of the boxes.

I was desperate and failing.

Clara.

Clara, wake up!

Something's wrong

with the house.



What?

The house.

It's freezing in here.

And the lights won't turn on.



I know.

We'll get it fixed.

Come here.



I called the electric company.

Twenty-minute wait time.

My phone battery was down

to five percent.

I turned off my phone.



When we arrived at the diner,

I was so tired, numb.

I was in a fog,

just existing.



My mind couldn't focus.

I wanted to make a plan...

(Clara chuckles sadly)

...but there was no plan.

How did we get to this place?

My God, I'm just a kid.



Ruby and those hash browns.



A cat.

A mermaid.

Hey...

A fish.



A cupcake.



An ice cream.



And this one.



This one.



How do you know

when you hit rock bottom?



(Clara sighs)

You just know.



I didn't want Ruby

to see me cry,

hear me scream.

I've come this far

without letting her see

how scared and devastated

and desperate I was.

But she's so smart,

so perceptive.

She knew something

was not right.

But she has complete faith

in her big sister.



Excuse me!

Excuse me.

Sorry.

We're about to be closing soon.

We're about to close?

Thanks.

I'm sorry.

Your card was declined.

Oh. Can you try again?

I--I did.

(Clara sighs)

Hey, hey.

It's okay.

It's on the house.

Thank you.

Okay. Hey.

Get your jacket on, okay?



Could it get any worse?

It could.



Of course

the car wouldn't start.

I didn't have any energy

to really feel anything

about it.

I just came

to the realization

that this would be

my last night with Ruby.



I had one last best idea

to ease her worry.

I would make a tent

in the basement

and we could go camping.

She brought a couple blankets

and leftover Halloween candy.

And peaches.

The most amazing, beautiful,

wonderful baby sister ever.

My best friend.



Ruby fell asleep in my arms.

Then reality completely hit,

and it hit over and over.

Being smashed into a wall,

Ruby getting sick.

The credit card, the car.

This freezing house.

I couldn't convince myself

to get it together.

I was failing Ruby.

My beautiful baby sister,

sleeping curled up next to me.

I was out of options.

It was bad.

This was very, very bad.

Breathe.

Breathe!



I failed Daddy.

I failed Ruby.

I failed.

Game over.



I'm so sorry, Ruby.

I don't know what to do.

I don't know what to say.

Just make something up.

You'll make it special for her.

You always do.

(hum of white noise)

I'm still here.

(banging)

Clara?

Clara!

Clara! Ruby!

I got a ringtone.

Clara?

Hey, Ruby!

-Clara!

-Ruby?

Clara.

Clara!

(approaching footsteps)

Oh my God--Graham!

Graham, they're down here!



Oh--Clara!

(indistinct remarks)

It's so cold.

It's so cold!

Clara.

Clara, hey!

Honey. Honey.

We're gonna get you

out of here, okay?

Look at me,

we're gonna get you out of here.

Let's go.

-Let's go.

-Wait.



(floor squeaking)



What is it, Clara,

can you show me?



She had a plan to get help.



For the first time, I saw

a glimmer of hope in her eyes.



That evening,

after I put Ruby to bed,

I went to check on her,

but something wasn't right.

She had been out

evenings before, but,

I thought she'd be

packing or something, I mean,

she was leaving the next day.

I knocked on her door, but...

there was no answer.

I opened the door,

but the lights were off.

The lights in the closet

were on.



I made my way to the closet.

I saw a shadow moving.

I could hear creaking.

Suddenly, I could see a shadow.



Come out, I was so scared.



I made my way

to the front of the closet.

First, I noticed the feet.

Then my eyes made its way

up to the knees.

And the waist,

and the shoulders.

Oh, God, oh, no.



A rope.

The ceiling.

No.

No, no, no, mom, no.

I checked for a pulse, but...

if you saw her face,

and her eyes.

Oh, God.

I went to the kitchen

and got a knife.

I cut the rope,

and she collapsed to the ground

with such a thud.

Please, God,

don't let Ruby wake up.

I can't let her see this.

I panicked.

I promised Daddy

to protect Ruby.

Ruby first.

(sniffling)

Her...

Put her in her favorite dress,

and made up her face,

covering the marks on her neck.

I put her in a large tarp.

It was pouring outside.

Dragged her outside to the shed

and put her in the big freezer

that dad used to keep deer in.

I went back inside,

took off my clothes,

took a shower,

went in Ruby's room,

and fell asleep next to her.

Clara.

Clara.



She's all I have.

We're getting you both

out of here, okay?

You're both coming home with us.

I'm so tired.



Hey, you.

Where am I, am I dreaming?

It's okay, honey,

you're at the hospital.

I don't understand.

It's just,

you had a rough night,

and you're here for observation.

Where's Ruby?

She's with Graham.

Why do I feel like

I did something wrong?

You did absolutely

nothing wrong.

I didn't know what to do,

there was no one else

in our life.

We only had each other.

They're going to take away Ruby.

No, no one,

no one is going

to take Ruby away,

no one.

Okay, I know the system,

I know the people in the system.

They're good people,

and I'm working on it,

and my team is working on it,

and, besides,

Graham would never allow it.

Clara, but now you need

to get the resources

that you need

to heal and to rest.

I can't go back there.

You never have to.

How did you know?

How did I know what?

To come to the house.

Oh, we tried calling you

and calling you

and calling you all day.

We were worried.

Clara,

I knew when I met you

that something was wrong...

but I had no idea.

When can I see Ruby?

Soon.

But I promise she is okay.

Clara, I don't know

how you did it,

but you shielded

that little girl

from everything bad in her life.

We're gonna

keep an eye on her, okay?

I am so scared.

I know, I know.

But you don't have

to hide anything anymore.

You can rest

and you can heal.

What about...

what about mom?

Everything at the house

is being taken care of.

What was I thinking, I...

I knew it couldn't last,

I knew every night

when I was putting Ruby to bed.

You did it for Ruby.

Would've been easier

if mom just left

and never came back.

I mean, she must've known

I would find her,

or worse, Ruby.

Why did she do it?

I don't know.

But, Clara,

I do know

that it's time for people

to start taking care of you.

Clara, you have your whole life

ahead of you.

Your whole life.

And I know it doesn't

feel like that right now,

but I will be with you,

every step.

I failed, Lindsay.

No.

You look at that.

You look at those smiles.

That's the most

beautiful picture

I've ever seen.

Well...

you need sleep,

okay?

I'll be back tomorrow.

(sniffling)

(sighs)

It had only been two days,

but it felt much longer.

My body was rebooting.

A nice doctor, Dr. MacAdams,

spoke with me.

Lindsay spent

so much time with me there.

That was comforting.

So,

I talked to Dr. MacAdams,

and she admires you.

She's really nice,

easy to talk to.

When can I leave?

(laughs)

It looks like today,

but you're gonna

continue to see Dr. MacAdams,

because I understand

that you two have a plan.

You know I would

never harm myself,

or Ruby, right?

Of course I know that.

They're just asking

silly questions, and--

I know, I know.

They just need

to hear it from you.

That's all.

Okay?

I know you, Clara.



Easy, easy.



I missed you so much.

Not as much as I missed you.

Please tell me you aren't

going away again?

I'm not going anywhere.



Hey, this is such

a beautiful room.

Graham let me pick out

my favorite color,

and we spent the day

painting the walls.

Wow, you two must've been busy.



You have Peaches?

Yeah.

Peaches and the dress

you bought me.

Those are the only things

I asked Graham

to get me from the house.



I know that mom's dead.

Oh, Ruby, I...

I wanted to tell you.

It's...

she was never a mom to me.

I don't have any memories of her

ever being a mom to me.

I'm not sad she's dead.

She wasn't good to you.

All I care about

is you and your happiness.

I know that.

I've always known that.



Do you like it here?

Lindsay and Graham

are so nice to me.

Lindsay took me out to get

some new clothes yesterday,

and Graham and I

went Christmas shopping.

Wow, how fun.



I had a bad dream last night.

Do you wanna tell me about it?

You were driving,

and the road was so windy.

We were near a cliff,

and we kept getting

closer and closer

to the edge.

And finally,

the car went over.



What an awful dream.

Sounds like I might need

some driving lessons.



We did drive off a cliff there.

The other night.

But you know what?

I think we may have just landed

on a different road.

Maybe we let Graham and Lindsay

drive for a little bit?



Thank you, Clara.

For what?

Everything.



I was in the room

right next to Ruby's.

Graham had brought

my clothes from the house,

as well as my paintings

from the wall.

Hi.

I hope you like the room.



This doesn't feel real, Lindsay.

It's gonna take some time.

Man, I knew that

you like to sing,

but I didn't know

that you were a painter.

I mean, I think that we should

hang this in our foyer.

I'm... it's...

your work is beautiful.

Thank you.

But of course.

This room is really pretty,

thank you.

I think we need...

a prettier headboard.

I don't want you

to worry anymore.

Everything is taken care of

with the house.

I'm glad,

I just don't wanna relive it.

Clara...

your mom left a note.

For me?

I don't wanna read it.

Okay, I understand.

What could she possibly say?

That she's sorry?

That she did it for me, for us?

I never wanna read it.

You never have to.

Now, get some rest, okay?

Hey.

I didn't think you'd pick up.

I just haven't known

what to say.

It's just good

to hear your voice.

I'm so sorry

for what you're going through.

I know the rumors.

I know they're not true, Clara.

People make up the worst things.

It doesn't matter.

There are more people

pulling for you

than you realize.

I just can't be

anywhere near it.

That's fair.

I really would

like to see you, but--

I just...

I have a lot to figure out.

I understand.

I'm really sorry, Noah.



For so many years,

we did not have anything special

planned for Thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving was obviously

and wonderfully different.

Other than each other,

Ruby and I have something

to be thankful for.



The two had a plan,

and they insisted

Lindsay and I rest.

Lindsay definitely needed it.

She was spending day and night

protecting me and Ruby.

I was given some medication

to help with the anxiety.

It made me pretty tired.

But I couldn't take my eyes

off the two of them.

It was so good for my heart.

My soul.



The kitchen smelled amazing.

There's so much kindness

and love in this home.



Ruby was safe here.



Hey, dinner's almost ready.

I'll go get the others.

Uh, before you go, Clara,

I just wanted to thank you.

Thank me?

All I've done

is make your life complicated.

No, you haven't.

-Really?

-You haven't.

So, when I was 12 years old,

I lost my baby sister,

Annabelle.

I loved her so much,

I loved being her big brother.

When she passed,

it completely left me

heartbroken.

I would have given anything,

anything to allow her to live.

I can only imagine the entirety

of what you've done for Ruby,

knowing everything

that you've been through.

But that little girl

has filled this immense hole

in my heart,

and that is all because of you.

I really admire you, Clara.



I'm so sorry about Annabelle.

I don't what I'd do

without Ruby.

I love how you are with her.

She's never had someone

like you in her life,

not that she would remember.

The other day,

when I was at the hospital,

I think I was at my lowest point

when Lindsay showed me

that picture of you

and Ruby and Santa.

I don't know

where they got that Santa,

he was pretty rough.

Well, that picture helped me

more than you'll ever know.

I just hope you and Ruby

like it here.

Graham, we love it here.

Don't open your eyes yet!

Watch your step,

watch your step.

This does not seem like

the dining room.

Open your eyes!



Ruby, did you do this?

Me and Graham.



Dear Lord God,

thank You so much for

bringing us together

as a family.

Lindsay's prayer

was so meaningful.

I know I was supposed

to close my eyes.

But I could not take my eyes

off of Ruby's face.

These kind, resilient,

strong young women

that You have brought

into our lives

and into our home.

In Your name we pray, Amen.

For that moment,

every ounce of stress lifted.

We ate and laughed.

Watching the relationship

between Graham and Ruby grow

meant more to me

than Graham will ever know.



He is so gentle and kind,

and hangs on every word

she says.



Lindsay was becoming

a big sister to me.

I knew I could

tell her anything.

I know how quickly

everything can change,

and everything

can be taken away.



And that's something

I would have to work on.



And I will.



Things that might seem so small

are so impactful and large.

I just can't explain the feeling

of being in that room,

watching everyone

place an ornament

on this big, beautiful tree,

one after another

until only the star remained.



Oh, how I love this moment.



I went upstairs to rest.

It had been a long,

wonderful day.

But something Lindsay said...



Thank you for today.

I don't think Ruby has ever

experienced anything like that,

and I don't remember

the last time I have, either.

It was the perfect day.

(giggling)

Lindsay, you said something

during your prayer

before dinner.

Well, I meant every word.

Ruby's face

when you said, "Family."

She was looking at you.

Family is something

she so desperately wants,

and I suppose,

of course, I do too.

Watching her,

you know, with you,

putting the star on the tree.

It's something

I'll never forget.

It meant as much to me

as it did to her,

And I guess

I'll never fully understand

why you and Graham

are doing this.

I meant every word,

okay?

I mean, Graham and I,

we've tried to start a family

since we got married,

um, but...

We both feel this way,

and it...

it may be hard

for you to understand why.

Faith is a huge part

of both of our lives,

and, by the way,

it's okay if it's not for you.

But we believe that you were

put into our lives for a reason,

a powerful, wonderful reason.

You and Ruby

have made our lives

immensely better.

And don't get me wrong,

we're very thankful

for everything we have,

but it's better

because you're in it.

Clara.

We want you and Ruby to move in,

and not just for the holidays.

We want this to be

a real home for you.

What do you say?

(gentle laughter)

We're so emotional.

(laughter)

Words can't express how I felt

going to bed that night.

I don't know

if I will ever understand

the love and generosity

that Graham and Lindsay

have shown me and Ruby.

They have given us

the greatest gift.

The gift of a second chance.

The opportunity for survival.



So, this is the right place

and time to end this journal.

There isn't more to tell.

Dr. MacAdams has been with me

every step of the way

these past six months.

So has Lindsay, and Graham,

and Ruby.

I'm in a much better place.

I feel a sense of

security and comfort

that I have not felt since

before my father got sick.

I can think about my future.

I am breathing again.

And one day,

I know I will be able

to fully exhale.

I have faced my trauma

and my demons...

and I feel

I can leave it behind.

I've forgiven my mom.

I will keep those

beautiful memories of my dad,

and those I had of my mom.

But I owe it to myself,

and Ruby, to move forward.

Well, you're making

great progress, Clara.

The writing really helps,

and I've started

writing songs again.

I'm delighted,

another positive step.

And school is going well?

It is.

And I'm glad it's online,

and the classes are pretty easy.

And you will graduate

at the end of the summer?

That's the plan.

Did you decide

what you want to do next?

I'm going to take

a year and work

at Lindsay's law office.

I saw Noah.

You did?

Where?

The toy store.

I was looking

to buy something for Ruby.

Tell me about him.

Well, I haven't seen him

since everything happened,

and he seemed scared

to even come near me.

Go on.

Well,

he smiled, and...

I've really missed his smile.

It was right out of a movie.

That's when he walked

over to me.

He told me he missed me,

and I told him

I missed him, too.



I was so happy.

That's really sweet.

Are you going to see him again?

As much as I

just want to move forward,

Noah has always

been there for me.

Always.

And to think

he didn't give up on me.

I mean, if you could've

seen his eyes.



We've talked on the phone

every day since, and...

we're going on a date

this weekend,

can you believe it?

That's wonderful, Clara.

Did you tell Ruby?

She was really happy.

You should be really proud

of the progress you have made.

And then Dr. MacAdams told me

she no longer needed to spend

as much time with me.

That I was ready to move on.

It made me feel so proud.

I was... happy.



I can't lose hope

I can't lose faith

At the end of the night

There's another day

About to start

Let it begin

I will open up the doors

I'll breathe it in

I'm standing up

Gonna rise above

Remind myself

What it means to love

I would run a thousand miles

I'd walk the earth,

so vast and wild

There is someone

waiting at the end

She's too far for me to see

But I know she waits for me

And I can't stop

until she smiles again



I hope she knows

I'm always here

I might hide

behind the moonlight

But I won't disappear

I won't give up

I'm holding on

Oh, I fear I grew

too quickly

But I'm learning

to grow strong

I'm catching up

One day, I'll rise above

Remind myself

What it means to love

Oh, I would run

a thousand miles

I'd walk the earth,

so vast and wild

There is someone

cheering at the end

She's too far for me to see

But I know she waits for me

And I can't stop

Until she smiles again

The water's rough

Rising endlessly

But I'm treading water

Swimming aimlessly

Because I know

When I reach the shore

I will see

Her face once more

I won't lose hope

I won't lose faith

At the end of the night

There's another day

Oh, I would run

a thousand miles

I'd walk the earth,

so vast and wild

There is someone

waiting at the end

She's too far for me to see

Oh, but I know

she waits for me

And I can't stop

Until she smiles again

Again

Until she smiles again

Oh

It's perfect.



Rewinding years

I don't know where I've gone

Sweat and tears until

I'm back at square one

Is there an answer

hiding in this dark abyss?

Am I what's wrong,

it's never done

The paint still drips

A treasure trove

In worlds untold

Yeah, now I'm waking up

I hear the starting g*n,

get set and run

Now I'm learning what

And now I'm learning

what can break a fall

Searching for

another way to roam

To get away, we can't stay

Wish I could let it go



And every step we take,

it feels the same

In this shadow play,

the hurt quakes

But you're my only home

Pull me under, but now,

now I'm waking up slowly

Slowly, slowly,

slowly, slowly

The Novocaine's worn off

and I'm seeing so clearly

Clearly, clearly, clearly

And the TV is flickering

In the static before me

'fore me, 'fore me, 'fore me

And I'm feeling

this chill again

Finding some confidence

-In the new me

-In the new me

But I'm standing taller

I'm seeing farther

than this city

City, city, city

The voice in my head,

it's starting to spread

It's taking a hold of me

Hold of me, hold of me

And now I'm waking up

I hear the starting g*n,

get set and run

Now I'm learning what

Now I'm learning

what can break a fall

My hands are harder

But they're so much stronger

And they'll wipe away

the salt

And I'll make it

Searching for

another way to roam

To get away, we can't stay

We're gonna lose control

And we're waking up,

waking up

Waking

And every step we take

it feels the same

In this shadow play,

the hurt quakes

We're just hanging on

A treasure trove

In worlds untold

And now, I'm waking up

And now, I'm waking up