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My texts all went through to you in one go, so I figure you have reception again.

Oliver

Long story short, the whole trip was just awful.

Lola

What happened?

I pause, trying to figure out how to condense the whole story into a short reply.

Oliver

Charlee got into an accident. Slipped into a river and hurt her ankle and her hand. We rushed back here as fast as we could. I’m at the hospital now, waiting to see what’s going on with her.

Lola

Oh wow. I hope it’s not too serious.

I hum to myself.

Oliver

I do too. I got a text from Donna, though. She drove straight to Pine Falls when she heard . . . She’s at Fir Café. We’re heading there after Charlee gets examined. I don’t know how she’ll react.

The last thing I want to do is talk this through with my boss, but I’m sure Trevor found a way to yell at her, just like he yelled at me when I told him we were leaving, and now I can’t escape it.

Lola

Do you know what’s gonna happen? Didn’t you sign a contract?

Oliver

I don’t, and yes, I did. Hoping we can find a loophole together, but I don’t think Donna will be ecstatic about any of it, even if we find something. Worries for later, right?

Lola

I’m here if you need me. Are you up for a Friday dinner tonight, then?

I check the date on my phone. It’s Saturday, but fuck it. I already missed two since Charlee has been here, and to be honest, I need it. I miss Matt and James too.

Oliver

Yes. See you tonight.

I lock my phone, and I’m just slipping it back into my pocket when Charlee comes through the revolving doors, a crutch on either side of her and her ankle and hand wrapped in bandages.

I jump to my feet and grab my jacket, rushing to her side.

“So?”

I scan her face, awaiting her answer, but I can’t pick up any signs other than weariness.

“Believe it or not, I just have a sprained ankle. I tore some ligaments, which explains the swelling and bruises. But the doctor said with a couple of painkillers, I should be good as new in a few weeks.”

I run my hand through my hair. “Good, good,” I say as I exhale. “Does it hurt? Do you need help to get to the truck?”

Her eyes soften, and she stands on one foot, waving her crutches. “What are those for, dummy?”