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What does she mean, she’s done this before? What isn’t she telling us?
“I—yes. Of course. Is there anything else I can do?”
“Give me some space? I just need to be alone tonight.”
“I will. I promise.”
Then just like that, she’s gone, leaving me with far more questions than answers.
22
JAMIE
Right as I’m at the door to leave for Avery’s house, a series of strange rapid-fire texts pops up in our group chat.
Avery—I’m doing it. I’ve already signed the papers. You can’t change my mind.
Avery—Also, sorry to pile on even more drama, but my mom found out about what’s going on when we all went to the zoo with Leo.
Avery—They’re insisting on meeting you.
Avery—I’ll talk about it with you later. I promise. I’m not running away. I just can’t do it right now.
Avery—Turning my phone off for the night.
Avery—Sorry.
I don’t even have time to let that sink in before the group text with just the guys starts lighting up too.
Phillip—Emergency meeting. My house.
First Avery, now this?
A knot forms in my stomach.
Jamie—Why the change of plans? Is everything okay?
Wesley—Is Avery okay? Why isn’t this in the group text that she’s in?
Phillip— There’s no point. She’s turned off her phone. We don’t need to involve her in this right now.
Wesley—The hell we don’t. Give me one good reason for me not to go over there.
Phillip—She clearly needs space. We need to respect that.
I know Phillip would have told us if Avery was hurt, but all I can see right now are images of Julia lying lifeless on the floor in our old home.
I can’t shake the feeling that Avery is in the same situation.
Jamie-—I really need you to tell me she’s okay. All I can think about right now is finding Julia. I know you would have said something if she was hurt, but I need you to confirm it.
I hate how pathetic I sound.
Phillip—Physically hurt, no. Emotionally, yes. She just texted me that she got home safely and is going to bed now.
Jamie—It’s only eight thirty. That’s early for her.
Phillip—It’s been a horrible day for her. Will you come over?
