12
[GROUP CHAT]
KENZIE: I have to know. How bad are the rumors about Joel and me?
TESS: Do you really want to know?
KENZIE: Yes. No. Maybe?
SOFIA: I’ll take that as a yes. Hannah claims you burst into tears when Joel kissed another woman in front of you.
KENZIE: Hannah, who runs The Owl Rescue Center?
SOFIA: That’s the one. Looks like owls aren’t the only creatures she rescues.
KATE: Darcy told everyone Joel insulted your card designs.
TESS: Joseph swore to his poker buddies that Joel purposefully tripped you right outside the movie theater.
KENZIE: This goes beyond ridiculous.
SOFIA: Courtney told her crochet group that Joel confessed to you that he was married.
TESS: Well, they call themselves The Hookers. What do you expect?
KATE: Apparently, Joel also has a stepson named Douglas, and you were devastated when you found out.
TESS: Forget Joel’s other family. Erin spread the absolute worst rumor.
KENZIE: Erin Bellah, who works at the gift shop?
TESS: The very one.
KENZIE: What did she say?
TESS: She’s convinced Joel stole your popcorn in the movie and that’s why you were so upset.
KENZIE: That’s not funny.
TESS: Joel can make it up to you by coming to our trivia evening.
KENZIE: How does that make it up to me?
TESS: The logic is complex, but I assure you it’s there.
KATE: With Joel as your partner, you might not lose. At least not too badly.
TESS: Yes, there’s the logic!
KENZIE: This only benefits you. Do NOT invite him.
TESS: Oops. Too late.