Ripley's POV

Ripley had been relieved when Jake offered to let her just stay. He seemed as reluctant for her to return to her own home as she was. It helped that tugging feeling feel more settled in her chest.

When she had gotten Cory's text, she was tempted to ignore it. She had no desire to address his pleading.

But she felt bad for him.

His parents still hadn't shown back up. Ripley was beginning to get worried, honestly.

For that reason, and that reason ...