Page 40 of Broken Secrets

We walk toward the parking lot together, and I notice other students are already making plans, comparing packing lists, discussing what snacks to bring, speculating about which marine life they’ll see.

“You know what?” I say, making a decision. “I’m going to enjoy this trip. Whatever’s happening with Emma can wait a few days.”

Maya beams. “Good. You deserve some normal teenage fun.”

Derek nods in agreement. “Plus, marine biology beats family drama any day.”

“We’ll see about that,” I say, but I’m smiling as I say it.

As we reach our cars, Maya pulls me aside. “When are you video chatting with Emma?”

“Tonight. After dinner.”

“Are you nervous?”

“Terrified,” I admit. “What if we don’t have anything in common?

“I guess we’ll find out,” I say.

“Text me after, okay? I want to hear how it goes.”

“Of course.”

Derek walks over to give me a quick hug and kiss on the cheek. “Remember that you’re awesome and anyone would be lucky to have you as a sister.”

“Thanks,” I say, and mean it. “See you tomorrow?”

“Bright and early. Try to get some sleep.”

CHAPTER TWELVE

The spaghettion my plate might as well be cardboard for all the attention I’m paying to it. I move the food around with my fork, creating abstract patterns in the marinara sauce while my phone sits face-up beside my water glass. The screen stays stubbornly dark.

“You’re not eating,” Mom says, her own fork paused halfway to her mouth.

“I’m eating.” I take a deliberately large bite to prove my point, though it tastes like nothing.

Robert glances between us, sensing the undercurrent of tension. “How was the rest of school after we talked about Catalina?”

“Fine. Maya’s excited about the cabin arrangements. We find out roommates tomorrow.” Another bite, another glance at my phone. “Emma and I are supposed to video chat tonight.”

She’s been trying to be supportive about the Emma situation, but I can see the worry lines around her eyes, the way she keeps glancing at my phone too.

“That should be nice,” Robert says. “Getting to see her face, hear her voice.”

“If she responds to my messages.” The admission slips out before I can stop it. “I confirmed the time this afternoon, but she hasn’t replied yet.”

Mom sets down her fork entirely. “Maybe she’s busy. Different time zone, school activities.”

“Maybe.” But Michigan is only two hours ahead, and Emma had seemed so eager to talk when we were messaging yesterday. The silence feels deliberate rather than accidental.

My phone finally lights up, and I grab it so quickly I almost knock over my water glass. But it’s just Derek texting about tomorrow’s early departure for Catalina.

DEREK

All packed for the marine biology adventure?

Me