Page 60 of Colliding with Ten

Before I could overthink it, I picked up my phone and typed.

Lennox

Hey. I’m guessing you’ve seen the video by now.

The three dots didn’t appear right away. I paced my living room several times, then heard the alert.

Ayla

Unfortunately, yes.

Lennox

I’m sorry.

There was a pause, and it made me nervous that she was blaming me.

Ayla

It’s not how I planned my week, but I’m okay. I’m confused by how crazy people are acting.

I exhaled as the tension eased a bit.

Lennox

You sure? If it’s getting to be too much, I can try to shut it down.

This was a promise I couldn’t deliver since social media was the wild, wild west for free speech. But if I could, I would spend the money to try.

Ayla

I appreciate that. But there isn’t much you can do.

I leaned my forehead against the glass wall.

Lennox

If that changes, you tell me. I don’t like that you got dragged in.

Ayla

It’s not your fault. And for what it’s worth, the video could’ve been worse.

Lennox

Yeah. They missed the part where you were roasting me.

Ayla

A tragic oversight.

I chuckled. The tightness in my chest eased.

Lennox

Just wanted to make sure you’re okay.

Ayla