"It's just a bad day," Garnet responds, though it feels a little disingenuous. Pearl has been running herself ragged the last few weeks, which means every little misstep causes a ripple effect of bigger missteps. She really has been a bit of a mess lately.

"Come here." Garnet reaches over and grabs Pearl under her arms, pulling her down onto the sofa and onto her lap. Pearl feels absolutely boneless already, heavier, even. "You're doing your best."