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That keeps him safe.

The door closes behind him, and I'm alone in the silence of my apartment.

My phone buzzes on the nightstand.

For a half-second, my heart jumps — expecting it to be... someone else.

But it's just a notification about a class assignment.

I stare at the screen longer than necessary, waiting for another message that doesn't come.

An hour later, my phone actually does buzz with a text.

Maeve: Are you alive?

Thank God. I’ve been waiting.

I type back: Not really.

Maeve: Are you still avoiding everyone?

Me: Not avoiding, babe.

Maeve: Rumors are insane btw

My stomach tightens.

Me: What rumors?

Maeve: About Cody. About the videos. About your transfer. People are talking.

I close my eyes and lean back against my headboard. Of course they are.

Me: What are they saying?

Maeve: That Cody was assaulted. That his family moved him. That you're hiding something.

Great.

Maeve: Are you seeing anyone?

I hesitate before responding.

Me: No. I'm not jumping into anything.

Three dots appear, then disappear, then appear again.

Maeve: Good. You need time.

Maeve: Come see me. Please.

I stare at the message, feeling the pull of my old life. My best friend. My safe space.

Me: Okay. I'll come this weekend.

Maeve: Really?

Me: Really.