Page 122 of Web of Lies

“We can track it, right?” Chase asks, eyes darting around.

“We have two bona fide computer nerds in our back pocket. Of course, they can track it.” Seger jokes from my other side. I cock my head to the side when the grass in front of me lights up. I take a step forward, leaning down, and pick up my discarded phone.

A new text sits on my home screen. Heat blooms on my cheeks, working its way up toward my ears, and creeps around my neck. I know by the contact name it’s him. Carter. It must be him—only him. My heart dips into my stomach, slamming against my ribs in a chaotic drumbeat.

Another time:

I fucked myself into temptation with you, but I meant what I said. Remember that name and place and go be a fucking genius.

Well, damn, be still my beating heart.

To: [email protected]

From: [email protected]

December 18th, 2020

Kace.

Christmas is so soon! I can’t waiit. Tonight, I’m going to that Yacht party. I’m going to meet my date there; remember they own it! So tonight, beneath the stars, I’m going to telll them I loove them. That I’ve fallen in lovve with theem and have been for so long! From the moment I saw them, I knew. Theyy were the oone.

So anyways, their yacht is huuge! I’m pretty sure they told me it has five bedrooms, a ballroom, diining room, and so much more! It’s only for the kids at schooll, so it’s going to be willd. I know, I know, why would I want to go hang out with these people? I have my friends, they assured mme, I’ll be safe. I promiise. I won’t let anything happen to me there. They won’t let it happen.

Lissten, Gotta go! I’ve got a beautiful dresss picked out for this and a matching sweater. Ah! I’m so excited, Kace. I’m so excited for yyou to meet them and have this all out in the oopen. I’m just ready to be home for a little while and decompress from all this madness here. It’s just so crazy all the shit I’ve been through, buut I’m strong, girl, right? So strong. Remember our crazy times together. Remember everything that we’ve been through. Remember everything, okay?

Don’t forget anything I’ve told you. It’s so important for you to know, read between the lines on everything. Everything.

K! I won’t be all gushy, gushy right now. I’m just remembering all the things we’ve done together. HA! Can’t wait to see you.

Magnolia xoxoxox.

1 girl, 3 guys, solve a murder:

Zepp:

Who named our group this?

Seger:

Wasn’t me

Chase:

What’s wrong with it?

Kaycee:

Seems a bit obvious, right?

Zepp:

Just a little.

Seger:

Imagine if someone gets a hold of that.

Chat name changed: Ungrateful BF-In-laws and a beautiful girl.