Page 48 of The Square

Danny. Bru. It’s Alec. Really. I’m sure it’s hard to believe, but it’s me. Here’s how you can tell: It may be time to improvise. If you’re alive and able to receive this, do let me know.

I hit ‘send,’ and then I wait. And wait. And wait. Liam’s snoring feels as though it’s getting louder. I have no idea how long he’ll be out, but if the snoring thing doesn’t abate soon, I may have to suffocate him.

Just as I’m considering planting a pillow on Liam’s face, he is miraculously spared by the ding of a text.

Alec?

Yeah, bru. It’s me.

Jesus

Indeed

You’re really alive

It would seem. I’m going to try to work myself free and come to you, yeah? Tell me where you are.

A few moments go by. Tiny bubbles appear on the screen. I have no idea what’s going to come my way. He could be anywhere. Honestly, if he told me he was on holiday on the surface of the sun, I wouldn’t be shocked. Nothing would surprise me at this point.

Well… almost nothing.

Finally, after almost half a minute, his response pings through.

We’re here