Chapter 25: The Double Cyrano Gambit

I: Faith

The idea to use text messaging to reach Walter was not only obvious, it was also smart: It would enable Lauren to say exactly what she meant to say, carefully, in turns without the inadvertent interruptions that could be part of face-to-face conversations. It would permit Lauren and Walter to develop a rapport that would carry over into an in-person conversation. It was almost foolproof; but that depended on the fools in question.

“But how will we get his number?” I asked.

“Well,” said Lauren. “I am the facilitator. I have everyone’s number.”

“Then let’s do it!”

“But…What if it doesn’t work?” Lauren asked.

“Well, there is nothing more sublime than tears.”

II: Zane

“I will help you talk with Lauren, and you help me expose Miles.”

“Lauren first,” said Walter Gates.

“But of course,” I said. “But how?”

We pondered on this together, but our heads were so addled by love - Walter’s nascent, mine riven - that we arrived at nothing actionable.