September of 2004, in the aftermath of a school shooting, new student Connie Turner avoids the young man who saved her younger brother's life, while battling with a shameful awareness that she is not the same as before the event.
Meanwhile, Max Nat...
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"You won't regret it, I promise!" Chelsea squealed. "This will be good for you!"
Connie was still unsure of that fact.
"We might have to tell my mom that I'm sleeping over at your house. Maybe say we're going to a movie or something."
"My mom has a night shift at the hospital tonight, but my sister is back from college. She'll cover for us," Chelsea reassured her as they reached Connie's used Toyota in the parking lot. "Don't worry, these kids are nice, you won't feel out of place."
Connie gave a tentative nod with a hint of a smile. She had never been invited to a house party, even before they'd moved. She had been spending her Friday nights at home with mom and Brandon. Dad had long returned to their old hometown. Evette was getting anxious about his absence, probably threatened by his close proximity to his family. At least that was what Connie assumed.
When she got home, Mom took the tale hook, line, and sinker.
"I'm glad you're making friends, honey," she said, rubbing her daughter's arm as they ate chips and salsa while standing at the kitchen island.
Connie sighed through her nose.
"Well... there is something else."
"What?"
"We might go to a party over at this guy's house, he's friends with Chelsea and that crew."
Mom nodded thoughtfully, eyeing her daughter. "Thank you for being honest. Are his parents home?"
"No..."
Mom cocked her head to the side, her eyes narrowing in concern. "Will there be alcohol?"
"Most likely."
"Who is driving?"
"Me."
"And will you be drinking?"
Connie shook her head and dug a chip into their shared bowl. "I hope you know I'm not that stupid."
Mom crossed her arms over her chest, peering out the window over the sink.
"You're not stupid at all. Under other circumstances, I would say no. But considering how hard things have been lately, I'm glad to hear you putting yourself out there. I know it's not easy for you."
Connie smirked. "That's putting it lightly."
"You'll have your phone on you?"
"Yes."
"If things get out of control or if anyone, I mean anyone, makes you feel uncomfortable, I want you to call me immediately. Don't hesitate, okay?"
Connie twisted off the cap of her water bottle. "I'm glad I could talk to you about this. I do want to go. I want to... try to make it here."
