Page 81 of The Lies Always Told

“I’m trying…but we’re supposed to talk today, so hopefully, it’ll be less complicated.” I’ve never used that word as many times as I have in just these few sentences, but yeah, that’s exactly what it is. Again…how does he know? “Wait, how do you know?”

He chuckles and shakes his head. “It’s obvious to whoever has eyes and is looking for the truth. I wanted to say something because I’ve seen it happen too many times before; the love and passion are right there, and for whatever reason, one or the other person doesn’t make it happen.This is me telling you to make it happen. If she’s doubting, unless you hurt her on purpose, prove to her why she shouldn’t doubt it anymore. Why she shouldn’t doubtyou.”

“I would never hurt her on purpose,” I reply, my body stiffening at even thinking those words.

“I know, which is why I said something.”

Before I can reply, my phone lights up with a message to my sibling group chat.

Allie:

Something’s happening at the high school, and I can’t get a hold of Jake.

The fuck?

Me:

What do you mean?

Manny:

Is Cara ok?

Allie:

We’re fine. We’re together, actually. Our school is in a code yellow because of something happening at the high school. There’s been no communication other than the high school and the middle school are both in code red.

Holy shit.Nellie.

Me:

What can we do?

Allie:

I’m sure it’s nothing, but I’m getting worried.

Me:

I’m heading to your house. Keep us posted.

Manny:

Same. Gus, call me.

I look up at Santiago, who’s looking at me with questions in his eyes.

“Something’s going on at the schools. I’m gonna head to Allie’s house.”

“Yeah, man. Let me know if I can do anything.”

“Will do.” I grab my keys and text Nellie before I’m even out to my car.

Me:

Tell me you’re okay.

She doesn’t reply, but I have no time to wait. I hop in my car and head to Allie’s, calling Manny on the way. So much for me telling Dr. Diaz I’d keep my heart rate low.

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