After our walk, it occurs to me I never called my mom. I bet she’s freaking out right now!
Alex walks me back to his parents’ house. No one is home, so I have some privacy.
If I had any doubt that Mom was worried before, the fact she picked it up before the first ring ended has dispelled it.
“Hey, Mom.”
“Cynthia! I was so worried! What took you so long to call?”
“I’m sssorry, Mom. There. Was a lot. To do.”
“But you’re okay—and everyone is safe?”
“Yesss, Mom. We’re okay.”
I hear a sigh through the phone. I feel bad. Even with everything going on, I can’t believe I forgot her.
Her voice becomes stern, her tone deep. “Cynthia, this only works if you keep our deal.”
“I-I know. Sorrr-ry.”
“Can you tell me where you are?”
“I don’t. Know where. Mount’ns.”
“Okay. Make sure you leave
