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>Talk to your friends.

Lorene sits up too. “…It’s nothing, really. Nothing new. We’re still having financial troubles, and I… I thought I could help. My dad told me I was too young to worry about it. He’s probably right.” She puts on a shaky smile. “But… don’t worry about me. I really appreciate you both always looking out and having my back. You two are the best friends-”

“Cut the crap, Lorene. If you’re not fine, don’t pretend you are.” Olivia flicks the side of her head. Lorene rubs at it. Ruth sits up, too. “So, it sounds like your dad is being a dumbass.”

“It’s… in a way, yes.” Lorene rubs at her elbow. “He’s just too good of a person.”

“Being a good person doesn’t make someone less of a dumbass.” Olivia puts a hand to her chin, thinking. Ruth just listens. “You’ve got a level head on your shoulders, Lorene. I think if you just explain yourself, your dad will understand and let you help out.”

Lorene stares down at her hands in her lap. “…what if I can’t?”

“…Can’t what? Explain yourself?”

Her hands curl into fists. She doesn’t respond.

“… i…” Olivia and Lorene both turn to Ruth. She’s staring at Lorene, a determined look on her face. “…i think that you should try. sometimes… there are things that need to be said, no matter what.”

Olivia nods. “Ruth’s right. If someone’s being dumb, you tell them. If there’s something you want to say, you need to say it.”

Lorene looks down, hiding her eyes. “…Thanks guys. I mean it.”

Olivia scoffs, before standing up. “That’s what friends are for.” She extends her hands to help the both of them up. She brushes off Lorene’s shoulder, then looks her in the eyes. “Lorene. Tomorrow, I expect a good report on how the conversation went, okay?”

“…me too.” Ruth’s voice is firm.

Lorene smiles. “Alright.”

>…It’s getting late. Is there anything you want to do with them before walking home?