mockingbird:
Definitely! It was my suggestion.
eastcoleman:
Okay, I wasn’t sure. We haven’t talked all weekend.
mockingbird:
I know, I’m sorry. I wanted to get in touch, but Zoe and Mae were helping me with extra training, and then we went out. When I got back to the dorm, I was so wiped out I fell asleep right away.
My shoulders tense as I read her last message. I know Rayne well enough to know when she’s lying. It’s not that she didn’t text me because she was too busy. She just didn’t know what to say to me. And since I understand that, I lie right back to her. That’s how it is now. It sucks.
eastcoleman:
It’s not a big deal. I’ve been out a lot too.
mockingbird:
Okay, good. So it’s not weird between us?
I suppress a groan.
“Everything okay?” Beck asks.
“Hmm,” I say.
“Great answer.” I can practically hear him rolling his eyes, even though I don’t look up from my phone. I type an answer and keep lying.
eastcoleman:
No, everything’s fine! I promise.
mockingbird:
Okay, so listen up. There’s a small studio in the West End. I alreadycalled them. We could go there next weekend and record the song if you’re ready by then. Or you can go on your own, whichever you want. I don’t have to come with you if you’d rather I didn’t. I’ll take care of everything, and you can go there on your own.
I don’t even think about it before writing back. There’s only one acceptable answer anyway.
eastcoleman:
Forget it, you’re coming with me. It’s our song, remember?
mockingbird:
Of course. But maybe me being there would disturb your creative process.
eastcoleman:
You’re nuts.
mockingbird:
Okay, sorry. I’ll shut up. I’m coming with you.
eastcoleman:
Thank you!