My phone sat on the nightstand. I’d charged it, but it was off to prevent the barrage of messages and calls from Joey. I refused to entertain the idea of talking to him, but I wondered if anyone else was worried about me.
I moved only to grab it, but Theo dragged me back to him. He was still asleep, but buried his face in my neck the second I was close again.
I wanted to be happy, but all I could feel was sadness that this could truly be over soon.
Throat tight, I looked back at my phone. Notifications poured in and I angrily deleted all the ones from Joey.
The ones from my friends made me pause. Our text chain was full with messages.
Jade
I’m gonna kill whoever that was. PIPER, WHERE ARE THEY???
Grace
Seriously! They’re not even from here and they’re talking shit about Theo? I’m gonna let Jade do it this time.
Mollie
We’re locked and loaded, Piper. Tell us what you need.
Wren
I HAVE HAMMERS.
Grace
Piper??? Is everything okay?
Mollie
Okay, Marjorie called. Theo’s coffee shop is closed. Piper, are you okay? Are you home?
Grace
We’re coming by. I understand if you want to have time to yourself, but just give us a sign you’re in there!
Jade
Piper, we’re worried.
“Oh, God,” I muttered. I quickly typed a reply.
Piper
Hey, guys. I’m alive, I promise. That person that posted was my friend, and it’s been a mess. I’m not home.
Mollie
THANK GOD.
Grace
Where are you?
Piper
A motel outside of Knoxville. It’s a long story, but I’m with Theo for now.
