In retrospect, she couldn’t remember why she told it. Maybe it was for attention. No, that wasn’t it. That would be ridiculous. She hated being the center of attention at all costs. Even medical appointments made her extremely uncomfortable. The one on one conversations with doctors and nurses made her so nervous and itchy. Once, she had a bad fall and was in terrible pain around her right ankle but refused to have it checked until it was so swollen she couldn’t wiggle her toes.

Maybe, it was to teach her friend a lesson. But why would she want to do that? Erin was a great friend, at least in public, when people were present and could witness her amazing deeds as a caring, loving person. In public when she could make videos and post on her socials, show her altruistic persona. 

Then, why did Michaela tell the lie that eventually got her friend murdered?

Because she could.

It was just that basic.

She wanted to do something just because she could. Not because Erin wanted her to, or her parents, or her partner. She was sick of doing things because others asked, demanded or cajoled. 

Honestly, it wasn’t even her fault if you think about it. She didn’t know Erin was in an abusive relationship. The girl was such a great actress she hid it well. How could Michaela have fathomed that an innocent lie, a cute lie even, would be the death of her best friend? 

Jake was boisterous, overbearing sometimes, cruel on occasion, but Michaela had never seen him intimidate Erin or cause any physical harm. She thought they were in a great relationship. It was plastered all over their socials. But then again, Michaela did not spend time with both of them often. She found Jake’s company insufferable and came up with every excuse to avoid spending time with him. 

On that Friday morning when she saw his text pop up on her phone, her first instinct was to ignore it. Her finger twitched and she found herself opening her phone to look at his message. 

“Did you leave this earring in Paul’s car?”

She hesitated for a fraction of a second before she responded. 

“Not my style.” 

It made her feel sophisticated. Like a character in a movie.

Honestly, she was just feeling mischievous that morning, a little flippant too. It was her birthday, and she wanted to do something just for herself. So, she told a simple lie.