SUTTON
I got your SOS text. What’s going on?
LAKE
This fucking test I have next period is messing with my head.
Hey, you’re okay. Breathe.
LAKE
I’m trying. I spent all week studying, and if I bomb it, my mom is going to kill me.
SUTTON
She won’t.
LAKE
Hah, you don’t know her. She already thinks I spend too much free time getting up to trouble. I don’t need my grades to reflect that.
SUTTON
You’re an adult. You can spend your time however you want.
LAKE
Tell that to her. I need a Xanax. And a drink. Can you drink while taking antianxiety meds?
SUTTON
Jesus. Where are you? I’ll duck out of sociology. Attendance isn’t mandatory anyways.
LAKE
Don’t uproot your schedule to come find me.
SUTTON
Too late. Already out the door. Where. Are. You?
LAKE
Ugh…I’m at Reber Hall. First floor.
SUTTON
Listen to this while you wait. Music slows your heart rate and reduces cortisol. Just try to focus on something else until I get there.
SUTTON
*sent Lake playlist*
LAKE
What is this?
SUTTON
We never talked about music taste, but I…kind of just made this for you.
LAKE
You made me a playlist?
SUTTON
Of songs that remind me of you. So, if they’re not your style, I promise I won’t take any offense.
LAKE
I remind you of songs?
SUTTON
You ask a lot of questions.
LAKE
I just…nobody has ever made me a playlist before.
SUTTON
I’m honored I get to be the first.
LAKE
These all seem surprisingly sweet. I think you give me way too much credit.
SUTTON
Not at all. I know the real you, Lake. Not the version you put on for your mom, for school, for protests. You’re a big softie inside. You’re emotional and sensitive and really fucking cool.
LAKE
I am NOT.
SUTTON
You so are. I’m five minutes out.
LAKE
Huh? I thought sociology classes were on the other side of campus?
SUTTON
I’m walking. Running. I’m running. I think I just crashed a campus tour.
LAKE
Run responsibly.
LAKE
And thank you. For talking me down from the ledge.
SUTTON
Always. It doesn’t matter what time you text me, or where you are. I’m only one phone call away.