The House Across the Lake

Continuing from a “Then” section, all throughout the next day, Casey worries about Katherine. She thinks the sound she heard at dawn was a scream, but because of her hangover, can’t be certain. Seeing Eli out fishing, she asks him if he heard anything, but he replies in the negative. This leads her to decide to visit the Royces’ house to see Katherine for herself.

Tom tells Casey that Katherine has returned to their apartment in the city and won’t be back until next summer. Casey considers this, noting that it makes sense, given their argument, and that Katherine might have been saying goodbye last night rather than signaling her fear. When Casey questions why their Bentley is still in the drive, Tom reassures her that Katherine used car service and doesn’t check her phone while traveling. Tom eventually becomes annoyed at Casey’s numerous questions and skepticism at his replies. He admits that he and Katherine fought before she left and tells Casey that she is intruding on their private affairs. He adds that Katherine will soon be bored of Casey and that she shouldn’t be so deeply invested in their friendship. Feeling abashed, Casey returns home vowing to herself to stop spying, when she remembers what Katherine told her about their financial situation.