But after everything that had happened, I opened it.
There were only a few words written across the page.
Next time, I’ll make sure there’s nothing left to cut.
My hands went numb.
I readit again.
Then again.
Suddenly the haircut didn’t look like a choice anymore.
Had someone threatened Tessa?
Had something happened at school that she was too frightened to tell me?
Was that why she had cut her hair?
I grabbed my phone.
Before I could call Nadine, it rang.
My boss, Caroline.
“Marla, thank God. Jen went home sick, and we’re buried. I need you back here for a couple of hours.”
Normally, my answer would have been automatic.
Sure.
Of course.
I’m on my way.
In fact, I alreadyhad my purse in my hand.
Then I looked down at the note.
I thought about Tessa sitting on her bed, crying.
