This was a lot more work for Clarissa, Eva acknowledged. It was a lot for her too, but at least she had Clarissa. Who did Clarissa have?

“It’s easier to summon emotions that are the opposite of gratitude” —Stephen Dubner, Freakonomics, episode #280

Was it possible that Racheli was out of clothes? That didn’t make sense. Eva entered her granddaughter’s room and fished through the suitcase on the floor. Why were they still living out of suitcases? Eva didn’t know why Shira hadn’t asked Clarissa for help.

Shira had prepared clothes for the week, but Racheli had managed to get dirty to the point of needing a change at least twice a day. Eva didn’t remember any of her kids being like this. And Dovi cried so much. Eva did not miss the “little” stage. She liked them a lot more when they were bigger and could carry an intelligent conversation.

There was more clothing in the suitcase, phew. They weren’t arranged by outfit and Eva had no clue what could possibly go with what.

“G-d only gave me boys for a reason,” she mumbled to herself.

She picked up a white T-shirt and short jean skirt. That was pretty safe, she decided. She brought it to Racheli and Clarissa.

“Clarissa, can you do a dark load for Racheli after you change her?” Eva asked as she handed off the clothes.

Clarissa nodded but Eva noticed her jaw lock.

This was a lot more work for Clarissa, Eva acknowledged. It was a lot for her too, but at least she had Clarissa. Who did Clarissa have?

Eva made a mental note to pay Clarissa for an extra day’s work, a small token of appreciation for her work with the grandkids, who were the cutest when their parents are around, and ragged rascals when they weren’t.

She drummed her fingers on the console. “I think we’ll do an early supper for the kids, get them to bed, and you can come at ten tomorrow.”

Clarissa smiled gratefully.

“I’d be up a creek without you,” Eva said.

Clarissa nodded. She knew it too.