#Chapter 51: Communication is Key

After our walk, it occurs to me I never called my mom. I bet she’s freaking out right now!

Alex walks me back to his parents’ house. No one is home, so I have some privacy.

If I had any doubt that Mom was worried before, the fact she picked it up before the first ring ended has dispelled it.

“Hey, Mom.”

“Cynthia! I was so worried! What took you so long to call?”

“I’m sssorry, Mom. There. Was a lot. To do.”

“But you’re okay—and everyone is safe?”

“Yesss, Mom. We’re okay.”

I hear a sigh through the phone. I feel bad. Even with everything going on, I can’t believe I forgot her.

Her voice becomes stern, her tone deep. “Cynthia, this only works if you keep our deal.”

“I-I know. Sorrr-ry.”

“Can you tell me where you are?”

“I don’t. Know where. Mount’ns.”

“Okay. Make sure you leave your phone on all the time, so I can locate you if I have to.”

“If,” I say with emphasis, to remind her that it was her last resort.

“Yes—only if.”

“Love you, Mom.”

“I love you, too, baby.”

“I’ll call tomorrow.”

“