Evicted? Do you need money? I could give you a loan. No interest. Just tell me how much you need, and I can wire it tomorrow when the credit union opens.
* * *
To: ALancaster
From: justmaddie
I don’t need a loan. I’ll be fine. I was being overdramatic.
Even if I did, I could never accept money from you. That’s not what this friendship is about.
* * *
To: justmaddie
From: ALancaster
Friends help each other when it’s needed. Tell me how much and where to send it.
* * *
A week later
To: justmaddie
From: ALancaster
Subject: Are you okay?
Normally, I don’t worry when we go a few days without speaking since we’re both so busy. However, given the topic of our last email, I’m concerned about you.
I’m sorry for overstepping about the money thing. I just don’t want to see you suffer or go without when I’m able to assist. But I won’t force anything on you. Ever.
I hope you know that if you ever need anything from me—including money—just ask.
Now, are you going to respond to my apology email, or do I need to bust out the Ranger panties?
* * *
Two weeks later
To: ALancaster
From: justmaddie2
Subject: This is me
Hi, Alan,
Sorry to go dark on you. This is my new email account. How have you been?
Maddie
* * *
To: justmaddie2
From: ALancaster