Friday, February 26th, 245 p.m. LAKE
LAKE
Hey, I’m so sorry for the urgent text. Are you able to pick Max up from school? My mom is stuck at work, and I’m scrambling to finish this essay before my next period. I promise you I’m more responsible than this.
SUTTON
I totally can. Don’t sweat it.
LAKE
Ugh, thank you so much. You’re a lifesaver. My mom left him once at pickup for three hours. He came home crying.
SUTTON
No worries at all. I’ve grown up my whole life with a busy parent. I know how these things can get.
LAKE
Yeah, she’s…working on it.
SUTTON
You never have to be nervous to ask me for help. You know that, right?
LAKE
I know, I just don’t like being an imposition. And I’ve always handled things on my own. If I ask someone for help, it feels…
SUTTON
Like you aren’t capable?
LAKE
Bingo.
SUTTON
You’re the most capable person I’ve ever met. You juggle school AND caring for your brother AND protesting AND climbing through Buford’s window to vandalize his house.
LAKE
Vandalize is a strong word. I just let nature reclaim what was once rightfully hers.
SUTTON
Honestly? You could’ve done way worse.
LAKE
Exactly. Thank you. I’m improving as a human being. But I did sign him up for Scientology spam emails.
SUTTON
Remind me to never get on your bad side.
LAKE
Stay scared, Sutton.
SUTTON
I wouldn’t have it any other way.