Chapter 4 Gretchen
GRETCHEN
My phone alerts and I glance at it quickly. A message from an unknown number appears.
Unknown: This is Cooke. We met last night.
Gretchen How did you get this number?
Even as I hit send, I'm pretty sure I know the answer.
Cooke: Gavin came to my house. He wants my help with his project.
Cooke: But I told him I'd only do it if you knew what was going on.
Cooke: I'll have him home by 8. If that's okay with you?
More typing bubbles appear, and then a text comes through. One I feel sure is direct from Gavin.
Cooke: PPLLLEEEAAASSSEEE!
I snort out a short laugh, shaking my head.
Gretchen: Fine. Home by 8.
A picture flashes onto my screen, with Gavin and Cooke facing the camera, giving me a thumbs up.
I'm struck for a second by the happiness I see on Gavin's face. He looks like he's having fun. Like the kid he's supposed to be.
A knock at the door pulls my attention away from the picture, even as I send one quick response.
Gretchen: