PROLOGUE
From: Lennon Ward
Sent: May 08, 2012 8:49 PM
To: King Sullivan
Subject: Missed You
Heyyyy,
Well, I did it. I’m officially a high school graduate. And thank God! There were really some days there that I didn’t think I’d make it. And if it wasn’t for you, King, I might not have. In a way, this night, this degree is as much yours as it is mine. Which, hello? Where were you? I missed you tonight! I know we agreed that Dad couldn’t see you or he would lose his mind, but still… I thought I’d see you there as I crossed the stage. I wanted to see you.
You and Mom.
God, I sound like a spoiled brat, don’t I? Instead of being thankful for the parent and friends I had there, all I’m focusing on are the ones who were missing. But Mom, she should’ve been here with us, with me. She’s been gone four years, and some days I feel every one of those years. And other days, like today, it seems like four hours. I asked Dad to leave an empty seat for her next to him. He had the extra ticket. He could’ve done it for me. I mean, it was my day. But he didn’t. Because he’s…fucking him. And yes, I cursed. But this called for it. One thing. I just asked this one thing from him on my graduation day, and he couldn’t do it. No,wouldn’tdo it. I’m so ready to leave Pike’s End. Ready to leave with you and begin the life we were meant to have together.
Because I’m so tired, King.
Tired of having to grieve how my dad grieves. Which is not at all.
Tired of having to hide who I am. Tired of having to hide you.
Look at us. Eighteen and twenty year olds in 2012emailingfor godsakes. I can’t wait until I can text and call you freely without fear of my father tracking the phone bill just to see who I talk to and losing his shit. Again, curse called for.
Anyway, I can talk to you all about this when I see you in a few minutes. I can’t wait to see you. I love you so much. And I can’t wait to show you just how much.
God. My dirty talk game is so awkward and weird.
Yours forever,
Lennon
From: Lennon Ward
Sent: May 09, 2012 12:49 PM
To: King Sullivan
Subject: Checking on you
Hey,King,
Just checking in on you. I overheard Dad in his office this morning. Okay, yes, I was eavesdropping. Your brother was arrested last night? I’m so sorry. Now I understand why you didn’t meet me last night. Have you talked to Leif yet? Is he okay? I wish I could talk to you, be with you. You must be so scared for Leif right now. Call me when you can, okay? I don’t care about my dad finding out. I’m worried about you.
Listen, I know you always turn me down when it comes to money but I have savings. And I planned on bringing it with me when we left for L.A. anyway. So what if we use it a little early to bail Leif out? What’s mine is yours because we love each other. Please let me be there for you. Leif means everything to you so he means the same to me.
Okay, I’ll wait to hear from you.
Yours forever,
Lennon
From: Lennon Ward
Sent: May 12, 2012 4:08 AM
To: King Sullivan