Don't Talk to Strangers

XXVII

She stood in the doorway, looking extremely torn between feeling baffled, confused, and curious, and being happy to see me. "You... Cassie!" she choked out.

I looked at her, taking her in. I hadn't seen her in so long. Her blonde hair had gotten longer, and darker. She didn't wear her glasses anymore, but she was still wearing the same typical outfit: khakis, a tie-dye shirt, and a small tie around her neck. "Hey, Lizzie," I said quietly, leaning on the doorframe. "You look nice."

She rolled her eyes and wrapped me in a tight hug. "You haven't talked to me in forever. I miss you!" she whined, a small smile on her face.

I gave her a half grin and motioned her inside. "I know, I'm sorry. I've gotten a little busy." We sat down on the couch and she nodded.

Mom had finally left me on my own for a few hours while she ran some errands and went shopping. I had the house to myself, but I wouldn't be staying long, if everything followed the plan and Lizzie agreed to help me. I was fairly sure she would.

"So... what did you need me to come over for?" she continued. "I mean, I'm glad you did. I'd love to spend the day with you."

I sighed, "Thanks, girl. I've missed you too, really. But I need your help with something. It's really, really important." Lizzie perked up to attention, straightening her tie. "You probably heard I was... well, kidnapped," I began, grimacing.

Lizzie nodded furiously. "Yeah! I'm so sorry that happened. I'm glad you're safe."

"Thanks," I replied quickly. "But the thing is... It's all a huge misunderstanding. And the guy who is accused is getting sent to trial soon, but I have to present my side. I want to help him."

Lizzie jumped up. "What? Bubby," she gasped, adopting the childhood nickname we'd given each other, "you can't do that. He kidnapped you. He deserves to go to jail! Don't pass Go! No money!"

I pleaded, "I know, trust me, I know. But he's learned his lesson, and he was just in a bad situation. He was really trying to help me." Lizzie still looked unsure, but she slowly sat down. "Honestly, if I can do this, he has the information on the real bad guy." I realized how true it was as I said it. My true stalker was still out there. I needed to solve this mess, and fast.

"What do you need me to do?" Lizzie breathed after a few minutes of quiet thought.

I looked up. "I need you to drive with me to the police station. I have to talk to the officers and set up my appearance in court. I can't drive, my mom's gone super-protective and I just got out of the hospital some days ago," I explained. "Please?"

Lizzie smiled, leaning over and hugging me again. "Kay. Let's do this."