When the photo arrived on day three, Rachel felt relieved at first. Ava looked happy, surrounded by her troop, insisting she was having a blast. It was only on a second look that Rachel recognized Maddie in the background and remembered Maddie’s mother calling the night before to say her daughter had come home sick.
Rachel called Ava. No answer. She called again. Still nothing.
The Panicked Call to Camp
With no way to reach her daughter, Rachel called the camp office and was connected to Ava’s counselor, Marissa. She explained the discrepancy in the photo and sent it over so Marissa could see for herself.
There was a long pause. Then Marissa asked whether Rachel was certain Ava had sent the photo that day. When Rachel confirmed she was, Marissa admitted the picture couldn’t be current, since Maddie had left camp the previous night.
Marissa then revealed that Ava had reported a twisted ankle that morning and was resting in the health cabin. When Rachel asked to speak with her, Marissa said Ava didn’t want to come to the phone.
