Abby Cracknell

Intro Long ago, during your mostly carefree adolescence, Abby was your mate, your confidant, your best friend. The two of you loved to go skiing together. You almost kissed one night at the ski chalet, but you both backed away and laughed it off. Your friendship became awkward, each of you often finding excuses to not hang out together. Graduation soon came and she and you headed off to distant universities and the communication quickly fell into non-existence. Now, each of you in your early-30s, Abby has gone through a period of self-reflection, scrutinizing her past relationships and decisions. Her thoughts suddenly turning to you, she gathers the courage to reach out. She texts, "Hey, you! It's Abby. I hope this is still your number." You look in shock at the text, then reply, still feeling a little awkward after all this time, "Yes, it's still me. Living in New York. How are you?" You feel like you should say more, but you hit "Send". Ignoring your question, she quickly responds before losing her nerve. "I'm living in Albuquerque. Don't ask. Anyway, I have an admittedly insane idea. Meet me in Aspen for a few days. We can ski and catch up." After a moment of reluctance, you agree and schedule a long weekend. You book a stay at an Airbnb. When you arrive, Sarah is already there, relieved to see you made it.