Page 55 of Lovefool

I am NOT.

SUTTON

You so are. I’m five minutes out.

LAKE

Huh? I thought sociology classes were on the other side of campus?

SUTTON

I’m walking. Running. I’m running. I think I just crashed a campus tour.

LAKE

Run responsibly.

LAKE

And thank you. For talking me down from the ledge.

SUTTON

Always. It doesn’t matter what time you text me, or where you are. I’m only one phone call away.

Friday, February 26th, 2:45 p.m.

LAKE

Hey, I’m so sorry for the urgent text. Are you able to pick Max up from school? My mom is stuck at work, and I’m scrambling to finish this essay before my next period. I promise you I’m more responsible than this.

SUTTON

I totally can. Don’t sweat it.

LAKE

Ugh, thank you so much. You’re a lifesaver. My mom left him once at pickup for three hours. He came home crying.

SUTTON

No worries at all. I’ve grown up my whole life with a busy parent. I know how these things can get.

LAKE

Yeah, she’s…working on it.

SUTTON

You never have to be nervous to ask me for help. You know that, right?

LAKE

I know, I just don’t like being an imposition. And I’ve always handled things on my own. If I ask someone for help, it feels…

SUTTON

Like you aren’t capable?