Page 13 of Truly, Madly, Deeply

“Sorry,” Dad muttered, shamefaced. “I—Diane—”

“It’s fine,” Mom said, curt. “I was out of line, too.”

“Tensions are running high right now, Buttercup. But we’re sorry. Your mother and I were very concerned with how you’d take the news. I don’t think either of us got much sleep last night. But we wanted you to know.” Dad blinked fast and Truly’s chest ached, too small, too tight, everything she felt too big to be contained by fragile bones and paper-thin skin. “Because we love you.”

“So much. And no matter what happens, we’re always going to love you.”

Truly let them drag her into their embrace, let them tuck her into the too-small space between them. Her bones creaked, and her joints protested at being smushed, but she curled up tight like a pill bug with her eyes closed.

“We’re in this together,” Dad said. “And love... Love Will See Us Through.”

Chapter Four

Monday, May 3rd

Subject: re: Unhinged w/ Caitlin McCrory

From: Caitlin McCrory

To: Truly St. James

CC: Melanie Morales

Dear Truly,

I wanted to reach out and reiterate how sorry I am for Saturday. To put it plainly, it was an epic clusterfuck and I feel terrible for not stepping in before feelings were hurt.

What we managed to record was actually really promising. I know it’s a longshot, but if you have time to chat this week, I’d love to buy you a coffee and discuss the possibility of a re-do.

Xoxo,

Caitlin

Monday, May 3rd

Subject: re: re: Unhinged w/ Caitlin McCrory

From: Melanie Morales

To: Caitlin McCrory

CC: Truly St. James

Hi Caitlin,

Truly is so sorry that she had to duck out of the recording early on Saturday! While she’d love to reschedule, she’s currently on deadline.

I’m so sorry this didn’t work out, but if you could keep Truly in mind for future opportunities, we’d both be so appreciative.

All the best,

Melanie

Tuesday, May 4th

Subject: re: re: re: Unhinged w/ Caitlin McCrory

From: Caitlin McCrory

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