That keeps him safe.
The door closes behind him, and I'm alone in the silence of my apartment.
My phone buzzes on the nightstand.
For a half-second, my heart jumps — expecting it to be... someone else.
But it's just a notification about a class assignment.
I stare at the screen longer than necessary, waiting for another message that doesn't come.
An hour later, my phone actually does buzz with a text.
Maeve: Are you alive?
Thank God. I’ve been waiting.
I type back: Not really.
Maeve: Are you still avoiding everyone?
Me: Not avoiding, babe.
Maeve: Rumors are insane btw
My stomach tightens.
Me: What rumors?
Maeve: About Cody. About the videos. About your transfer. People are talking.
I close my eyes and lean back against my headboard. Of course they are.
Me: What are they saying?
Maeve: That Cody was assaulted. That his family moved him. That you're hiding something.
Great.
Maeve: Are you seeing anyone?
I hesitate before responding.
Me: No. I'm not jumping into anything.
Three dots appear, then disappear, then appear again.
Maeve: Good. You need time.
Maeve: Come see me. Please.
I stare at the message, feeling the pull of my old life. My best friend. My safe space.
Me: Okay. I'll come this weekend.
Maeve: Really?
Me: Really.
