LAURA

Laura is freaking out. It's Sunday afternoon already and she still hasn't heard from Michael. She has sent him about a billion text messages and has tried calling him about two billion times. She has tried his email, his social media, but he isn't responding.

She sits in her bedroom waiting for the taxi to come and take her back to Breeburn University. On impulse she calls Zara.

"Hello," Zara picks up on the first ring. Her voice sounds hoarse, like she has been quiet for a day.

"Hi, Zara, how's everything?"

"Pretty swell, actually." She replies. "I've gotten started on my fantasy writing. What's up?"

"It's...It's Michael."

"What did that son of a bitch do now?"

"That's the problem. I don't know. He's not answering my calls or messages or emails." Laura sighs. "Maybe I'm being too clingy?" She doubts herself.

"Hey, relax. Take a deep breath. Okay. He's not answering calls?" Zara becomes silent for a second. "That's not like Michael at all."

"I know, I'm worried. I hope he's alright."

"When is he supposed to get back?"

"Thursday noon. We have plans for the weekend."

"Okay listen, just take it easy, he'll call back, don't worry. And you'll see him in a couple of days, anyway." Zara advises.

"Yeah, you have a point. I…" Laura's mother interrupts her.

"Darling!" She calls, " the taxi is here."

"Zara? I'll see you in a bit, okay?"

"Yeah, see you."

They hang up.

Still feeling restless, Laura picks up her over night bag and, bidding her parents goodbye, boards the taxi to Breeburn University.