Claire

Claire had spent her entire life in her older sister’s shadow. No matter what she did or what she tried, Harper was always able to do it better, faster, smarter –

It didn’t take long for her to give up and quietly shrink into the background.

Tired of constantly being compared to the shining star that was Harper by peers and teachers alike, as well as generally being shy, Claire asked to be homeschooled instead. Her parents subsequently hired a private teacher to keep Claire up on her studies. The woman was fairly old and frightfully British, and moreover, did not approve of Harper. Finally, for the first time, someone didn’t care about her sister’s accomplishments! Under her tutelage, Claire learned not only academic learning, but also manners, etiquette, hosting, sewing, cleaning - a whole education on how to be a prim and proper lady. The demure Claire became even more ladylike and elegant. During the course of her education, she became infatuated with gardening. Despite it not being very prim to get dirty - the experience of forming life through naught but hard work was amazing to Claire - she couldn’t get enough of it!

Around this time was when her older sister, Harper, suddenly vanished, only resurfacing in newspapers under the wanted pages. The entire family was aghast - what had happened to their perfect little girl? It was hard for Claire to feel worried - as much as she loved and adored Harper - for the first time ever, she finally had a leg up on her – as the family all shook their heads and turned to the perfectly prim Claire. It was a horrible thought, but part of her hoped that Harper would never come home….

After graduating from her studies, Claire began to work part-time as a florist. Her ladylike charm brought in a few repeat customers - mostly old folks who loved having someone to talk to. At the flower shop she met a lovely, kind baker, who’s name was… Claire! She quickly became another regular of Claire’s, showing up once a week and talking to her until closing time. Claire didn’t even notice herself falling in love until Claire asked her out one day - before she could think, she said yes!

Excited, she ran home to share the news… only to find Harper was back and that’s all the family cared about. Harper patted her head. She was excited for you, Claire! Claire sighed and gave her sister a big hug. Maybe she did miss her a lot, regardless.

While her sister reclaimed her rightful spotlight, Claire focused on her relationship. Dating led to marriage, which led to a dowry of enough to purchase a small farm, where Claire could grow fresh ingredients for Claire to bake with. Out in the countryside, miles from home, Claire finally felt the shadow of her sister leave her. It didn’t matter how well Harper did anymore - she had a perfect life out here with Claire.