Text messages between defendant Karen Read and ATF agent Brian Higgins are essential to understanding the theories behind both the prosecution and defense’s case.

The texts were read in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham for the second trial on Friday, May 10, 2025, by Massachusetts State Police Sgt. Yuriy Bukhenik, a principal case investigator. The texts were read in court for the first trial on May 24, 2024, by Higgins himself.

Case basics

Read, 45, of Mansfield, is accused of killing Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, her boyfriend of about two years at the time of his death on Jan. 29, 2022. She faces charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating a motor vehicle under the influence, and leaving the scene of a collision causing death.

You can read the basics of what to know about Karen Read’s second trial here and the basics of who to know here. Read a similar rundown the Herald published ahead of the first trial here and find an index to the complete first trial coverage here.

Prosecutors say Read struck John O’Keefe with her Lexus SUV and left him to freeze and die on the front lawn of 34 Fairview Road in Canton in the early morning of Jan. 29, 2022, after yet another argument in their crumbling relationship. They say she was drunk and emotional but that the strike was no accident.

The defense counters that Read merely dropped O’Keefe off at the house and that he did go inside, where others beat him and then put his body outside to make his injuries seem like a vehicle strike. They say the homeowner, Brian Albert, is part of an influential family in Canton and the Boston Police sergeant had some pull among law enforcement who conveniently failed to investigate him.

 How do the text messages figure in the theories?

The text messages between Read and Higgins show some kind of relationship forming between them within two weeks of O’Keefe’s death. They exchange pet names like “doll” and “babe,” confirm that they kissed at least once and went on at least one date to an unnamed bar in West Roxbury.

But the texts are not mere flirtations. Read reveals deep dissatisfaction in her relationship with O’Keefe.

She repeatedly brings up jealousy over O’Keefe allegedly being “all over” the younger sister of a friend during a large group trip to celebrate the new year. She even more often brings up the loss of her independence because she was helping O’Keefe raise his niece and nephew. One example: “Because I went from being solo to trying to give attention to kids. Who aren’t mine. And I never wanted kids.”

The texts help the prosecution by establishing that Read was unhappy in her relationship with O’Keefe, which could give motivation toward a violent end. The texts help the defense by establishing Higgins as a rival paramour who may have taken up fists against O’Keefe in his pursuit of Read. It’s up to the jury to see which they find more plausible.

The texts

Below is a transcript of the texts between Read and Higgins beginning on Jan. 16, 2022, at 12:59 a.m.

The timestamps of each individual texts were not provided in the court presentation and so are not provided here. A timestamp was provided ahead of each grouping of texts, so you can infer that groups of texts came in relatively quick succession if there is no timestamp between them.

In this transcript, a “K” preceding a text means that Karen Read sent the text and a “B” preceding a text means that Brian Higgins sent the text. A forward slash, / , separated by spaces means that it was a separate text but sent by the same sender but without the other sending something to interrupt the flow. Emojis and photographs are given basic descriptions contained in parentheses.

The Herald did its best to provide a verbatim transcript and any spelling or grammar errors are most likely found in the original, but the Herald offers no guarantee that it made no errors in its transcription.

Jan. 16, 2022. 12:59 a.m.

K: You’re hot
B: Are you serious or messing with me?
K: No I’m serious
B: Feeling is mutual / Is that bad? / How long have you thought that???
K: Are you okay driving? You don’t want to stay here?
B: I am fine. I have an office at the PD / You didn’t answer the question
K: Rather you say here
B: I wish / I think you’re messing with me
K: Why do you think that?
B: Because this is so out of left field / Where did these feelings come from?
K: I just think you’re like me
B: Meaning?
K: Do you have your own kids?
B: I have no kids / How am I like you? / Ummmmm / Hello
K: Aren’t we alike??
B: I think so /So why did you get my number and reach out to me? / Shoot straight with me
K: I told you. I just think we’re alike. / Right??
B: Yes, agree / Now what?
K: I don’t know
B: Ummmm / Shouldn’t you know?
K: Do you like me?
B: Yes / From jump
K: When was “jump”?
B: 1st time I saw you
K: When was that??
B: Hmmmm / Hillside for your sure / When were you interested?
K: I don’t know…you’re just my type
B: You think you can handle me? / I thought you were happy? / ?
K: How do you know if I’m happy??
B: Just assumed
K: Are you are to handle?? (Higgins puts a question mark on it)
B: What do you like about me?
K: I just feel like you’re from my neighborhood
B: Yeah / Ditto
K: And I think you’re hot
BL You really think that? / I have always thought that about you
K: What?
B: That your hot / Smart / Witty / But didn’t think you were interested
K: Witty??
B: Yea, meaning quick with a response / Tell me why you got my number and reached out to me
K: Just thought we were the same/from the same neighborhood
B: Are you afraid to say what’s in your mind? / On
K: No…didn’t I??
B: I am glad I stopped by. I should have come earlier. / Do you really live in Mansfield?
K: Yeah I was basically begging you
B: You don’t have to bed me / Beg
K: Huh?
B: I will give you whatever you want. / How are you texting right now? / Uggghjj / Leaving me hanging.
K: No
B: Kids / Kinda
K: How am I texting??
B: Is everyone asleep?
K: I’m just wide awake on my phone / Yes, they are
B: I should have stayed lol / So now what?
K: Yes you should have
B: That would have been distracting / So know what….. / Now
K: Now what what?
B: Balls in your court
K: What do you want?
B: Loaded question / What do you want?
K: I asked you!
B: Nope, you initiated this / Spit it out
K: Hey— we’re single and we don’t have kids. We can do whatever we want
B: Don’t you have a boyfriend?
K: Where are you?
B: Canton
K: Where?
B: My office at the PD / Why, are you going to Mansfield?
K: Where is that?
B: Canton PD
K: I have a house there. From before I reconnected w John
B: Oh…… I feel like you’re not really saying what’s on your mind
K: Do you like me?
B: Yes / Clearly
K: Come over to my house
B: When?
K: When works for you
B: Whoever / Whenever / When works for you?
K: I asked you first
B: I think you’re messing with me
K: I’m glad you came over tonight (smile emoji with red cheeks)
B: Me too / Balls in your court / What do you want Karen / You looked great tonight
K: I don’t know…what do you want??
B: You always don / Do
K: Yeesh, really? Why! (Higgins puts question mark on text) / ? / I looked “great”? You’re full of it
B: I think your hot / Always have thought that / Just have not revealed my thoughts
K: I’m hot for the Hillside. Low comps
B: Knock it off / Your hot period / Are you glad you walked me out?
K: Ummm..yes / Are you
B: Def / Yes / Are you going home tonight or tomorrow am?
K: We kissed, right? (Higgins puts question mark on this text)
B: Is this a trick question….
K: I don’t know when I’m going home. I am selling my house (nervous face emoji) / What a trick question?
B: Are you moving to Canton? / I am following your lead with this
K: I live here but I have a property in MField / Why my lead? I don’t want any responsibility
B: You started this right? / Why did you get my number and each out to me? / Still have not told me
K: Sorry – should I not have?
B: I am fine with it / Just don’t know why you can’t answer
K: You’re mad at me?
B: OMG / No, not at all / You’re being silly
K: I told you! / I just think you’re a lot like me and I am attracted to you. A lot.
B: Feeling is mutual / I just never saw this coming
K: Why?
B: Because, I just assumed you were happy with your situation
K: I was. But things have deteriorated.
B: Why? / How so? / What did Melissa say when you asked for my number?
K: It is very very complicated. He and I dated when we were kids and then his sister died and everything got fucked up.
B: He seems very into you
K: I just told Melissa that I had your number but lost it
B: That’s cute / She wasn’t suspicious / ?
K: No she’s great
B: Does she know you like me?
K: She’s a sweetie / We just agreed that you’re great
B: What does that mean?
K: I was jealous that she had your number
B: Like you’re either all in or you’re not / Why would you be jealous / I am not attracted to her at all / I have always been attracted to you?
K: Really?
B: Yes / Since the first time I saw you / We would have fun
K: Where are you?
B: I told you / Canton PD / My office / So are you selling your place and moving to Meadows? (question mark placed on text)
K: Yeah but where is that / I have had all my shit here for a couple years and my house has been vacant. But I’d like to get closer to the water
B: Hmmm / Are you breaking up or staying together?
K: I don’t know. He hooked up w another girl on vacation. I am very close to his niece.. It is a very fucked up situation
B: When was that & how did you find out he hooked up? / I don’t want to complicate your situation
K: We went away for New Years. The four of us. I put the kids to bed and found him in the lobby of our hotel all over one of our friend. whatever. It doesn’t matter
B: It does matter / Did the bang?
K: Does that matter?
B: Sorry, I was just asking / I was just trying to figure shit out
K: It doesn’t really matter
B: Ok, I won’t ask again
K: I don’t care / It doesn’t matter
B: Ok, hear you loud and clear Karen
K: Uh ok
B: Why are you getting your thing all twisted up over a simple question? / Thong
K: I’m not, am I??
B: You’re kinda getting defensive
K: Not at all! / What is the question?
B: Do you feel guilty texting me?
K: No
B: Ok / What do you want from me?
K: Nothing / Do you want anything from me?
B: I would hang out
K: Oh gee thanks
B: OMG / What am I suppose to say? / You’re being tough on me
K: None of us is married
B: True / So game on?
K: we can say whatever we want / Game on??
B: You send mix messages / I wish I stayed
K: Ok game on then
B: Kinda / Can you hang?
K: Sure
B: I hope you toss and turn tonight
K: I always do
B: Why
K: Why’d you say that
B: I just do
K: Why??
B: Cause you’re fresh
K: No I’m not
B: Ok / Do you always get what you want?
K: Be sweet to me please (pray emoji)
B: I could be so sweet
K: I’ve been very sick (Higgins puts question mark on this text) / I had colon cancer and ten surgeries in 18 mos. I’m a wreck
B: I had no idea / Are you ok now?
K: I never get what I want, just what I need / I am ok
B: What do you need?
K: What need to be content
B: What can I do to make you happy
K: Haha don’t worry. I’ve always been very happy
B: You talk in riddles / Just tell me why you contacted me
K: Huh?
B: What’s the big deal?
K: I told you! / Just think you’re like me
B: What does that mean / Like you want to hang with me?
K: You asked why I contacted you
B: Yea / I did ask
K: We are attracted to each other, right?
B: Reasonable question / Yes, 100%
K: Ok / We did kiss earlier, no?
B: I think you initiated that….. / No?
K: Yup / Do i owe you an apology?
B: OMG, no / Why are you being sensitive
K: I’m not
B: Kinda
K: Pfft never / What do you want from me?
B: What’s on the table?
K: What do you want ideally?
B: The real deal

Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022. 7:37 a.m.

K: Doesn’t exist
B: Ha Ha

Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022. 5:53 p.m.

K: So you like Hennessy XO??

Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022. 7:15 p.m.

B: I M hurting so bad
K: Yeah me too. The Currans went after it again at noon today (nervous emoji)
B: No way
K: This was about two hours before you came over (shares a photo that has been blacked out in court)
B: Ha Ha / I aM heading for drinks / Soon
K: Really??
B: Yeah

Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022. 5:09 p.m.

K: What’s on tap?
B: Ha Ha / What does that mean
K: Usually it means what’re you up to
B: Cute / I just wrapped work / Unpacking some groceries / You? / What’s on “tap”
K: Also unpacking crap from my car
B: Anything good
K: Nothing on tap
B: Shame / You were “ghost” yesterday
K: I can’t be the cruise director every day!
B: Shame / “Julie McCoy” / Wish I was at my Cape house in front of the fire sipping a drink
K: Wish I knew how to use my fireplace (concerned emoji)
B: From Love Boat / How old is your bad self?
K: Haha that was my guess / 42 next month / I know the Love Boat / I was more Brady Bunch
B: Ha Ha / What day?
K: 2/26
B: Nice / Your just a tad poke / Poke
K: Pole / Got y’a
B: When is the next party / Pole / Oops
K: It’s all relative
B: What pole & poke?
K: I’d have a party every weekend if it were up top me / No – 42 = tad pole
B: Ohh
K: I keep reminding myself that aging is a privilege (concerned emoji) / The better parties are at my house. No kids.
B: Why are they better?
K: Well, first, bc there’s no kids
B: You were ghost yesterday…… thought I heard the last of you.
K: Phones work both ways
B: I don’t wanna disturb you or you could otherwise “engaged” / I don’t know your routine
K: I didn’t use the word “engaged” – did I?
B: Huh? / “Engaged” as like doing something with someone
K: Yes that’s what I thought you meant
B: Are you being fresh today?
K: No!
B: Now that you sobered up / Ha Ha
K: I felt sober next to everyone else on Sat
B: Good point / You’re still “T”rouble / Ha Ha
K: Why am I??
B: (picture of a drink in a cocktail glass) / Just playing with you
K: What is that
B: Whiskey, with a big ice cube
K: What kind of whiskey? Jameson right?
B: (picture of a jar of maraschino cherries) / Cherry in middle
K: What good does that do?? / Are you in W Rox?
B: So good….. Yeah
K: Do you have a 4:30am bell?
B: Tomorrow / ? / Why do you ask?
K: Trying to figure out how many whiskeys you’re going to have
B: Depends / I don’t restrict myself from having fun / How many Hennessy XO you ha ing?
K: None I have none at my house
B: Ha Ha
K: I am not really Trouble (Higgins makes Haha marker on this text)
B: Want me to pick you up next time I go to the base? Usually cheaper & tax free / Just a little based on your conduct
K: The base?
B: Military base
K: I got thru the Henny fast
B: I shop there a lot. I can as a veteran.
K: My conduct? I’m not married. I’m the only one who does everything right! / What kind of veteran? Where is the base?
B: Dude, chill LAX / Teasing you. Are you sensitive? / Veteran from Iraq / I can go to any base but usually Hanscom in Bedford or down the Cape
K: Which base down the Cape? / Which branch?
B: Army’s / Army
K: I’m not abnormally sensitive
B: Joint Base Cape Cod / Awwww, I won’t be so hard on you.
K: Omg you’re not. You called me trouble. That makes me sound bad.
B: I was just playing with you.
K: You weren’t, but that’s ok
B: Stop being sensitive / Pleaseeeee
K: I am not!
B: Ok / So what’s up?
K: Did you figure out how many whiskeys??
B: You mean tonight?
K: Yes
B: Not sure……I am flexible & adaptable / Why are you so curious? / Are you drinking?
K: I haven’t had a drink yet / Just want to see what you’re up. Looking for an influencer. My day was looong.
B: Influenced how? / Are you in Canton or Mansfield tonight?
K: Influenced to have a drink even though it’s Tuesday / In Mansfield
B: How often do you stay there? / Is it a nice crib? / House or condo?
K: I stay here once or twice a week / House / I guess it’s nice (shrug emoji) I like it
B: How long have you owned it? / How many beds / Rooms
K: 2017 or 18 / Five bedrooms
B: What????? / Why so bid / Big
K: I don’t know..? It’s an old colonial. It has a lot of bedrooms
B: More than you clearly Need / Are you moving to Canton?
K: I know seriously. Some rooms I only go into to dust / Not any time soon / I’m there most of the time but sometimes it’s a lot
B: A lot why? / Do you even know what you want? / Or who?
K: Because I went from being solo to trying to give attention to kids. Who aren’t mine. And I never wanted kids.
B: I thought you were in this happy relationship
K: Everyone is happy at the Hillside!
B: Oh god / You avoid things
K: It’s just a very complicated dynamic with the four of us. He isn’t cut out for what he’s doing. And the kids present constant issues.
B: I think he believes he is doing the right thing.
K: Well of course he is but his heart isn’t in it / It’s only because he was very very close to his sister
B: I know how you feel kinda. I was married and when I met her she had a 2 ½ YO / I went from being single to being a dad / It’s hard / I am divorced since 2017 & have no kids
K: I try very hard but they are very spoiled. And they’re not my family. My parents keep telling me I’d feel differently if they were mine. Or my own sister’s. / Then I told you he got drunk and sloppy on NYE while we were away and that has really affected me.
B: What did he exactly do?
K: I never got married. And now somehow I’m arguing w someone about raising kids (emoji)
B: Why won’t you tell me?
K: He was a puddle all day and then disappeared. Then I found him all over friend’s sister in the lobby of our hotel. And she’s gross, which I think may actually be worse. Not sure.
B: Oh god / Did they bang?
K: So I was the kids celebrating New Years w/o him, which shouldn’t be my role. / No, I doubt it. He was a mess.
B: Hmmm / Was it the first time with her or do you think there were others
K: I don’t really think there were others. I’m with him all of the time. He never seems to want to go anywhere w/o me. But honestly the issues with the kids bother me more than him actually cheating. They’re constant and it feels like a lose/lose.
B: Hmmmm / You clearly have a lot of feelings swirling inside you.
K: Yeah it’s very complicated. Sorry for the rant.
B: You can vent babe
K: Basically I just feel like I spread myself too thin and sometimes it’s thankless.
B: Hmm
K: You prbly felt that way too
B: I did at times / It was one, not two thankfully
K: Want to grab a drink?
B: If you gave me some notice I could have
K: YOU said you were adaptable
B: I am / But I have my work truck with me & not my personal / Do you get angry when you don’t get your way
K: That sounds like an excuse. / I rarely get my way
B: I don’t make excuse / Excuses / If I don’t want to deal with someone I tell them and then I am ghost / Why do you even wanna hang with me?
K: Don’t we already hang out?
B: I don’t make excuses
K: Work truck/personal truck? That doesn’t sound like a massive problem / I end up drinking with you at least once a week I’d say..
B: I can’t use my work truck for transportation to go drink / You think so / What makes you so sure / Probably would be fun
K: I think I see you about once a week at a bar, no?
B: Not lately but yes
K: Ok…so you asked why I want to hang out. I’m just saying that I already hang out with you.
B: Yeah, but we have never one on one
K: Does going to a friend’s house qualify as transportation to drink?
B: Yeah, cause I can’t just have one / Can’t drive that banged up
K; Have none then / There’s five bedrooms here
B: Does mine have a lock on the door?
K: Lol / I don’t even know / I think so
B: You probably have a spare key
K: I don’t know if I’ve ever shut and locked a door here
B: Funny / Trust me I am tempted
K: Grab the Hennessy, thanks doll
B: Funny / I am confused. You don’t feel guilty inviting me over?
K: Should I?
B: I don’t know / Who knows what you feel / Only know what you said when you were drinking Hennessy / Ha Ha
K: Geez I just explained everything, I thought
B: Wow, you get angry easy
K: What are you talking about? I’m not angry in the least
B: Ok / Good
K: And I haven’t had a single drink today.
B: Ok
K: I don’t really think I should feel guilty
B: Why is that
K: Why should I not?
B: Dude, I am just asking / Don’t get your thong all twisted up
K: Yeah I just didn’t know what the question was / You have no impact on my thong (Higgins reacts with exclamation marks)
K: I think I try my best to do right by people and sometimes ppl suck. And I’m not married nor do I have kids.
B: I agree / But you kinda have a live in boyfriend? / You act like I ask dumb questions
K: Yeah kind of. But it’s been a long time and there’s ups and downs so at some point you have to think more rationally.
B: Do you plan on leaving him?
K: I’m sorry – I don’t think they’re dumb! It’s just hard back and forth on text to understand the question. When you asked “what day?” earlier, re: my bday, I thought for a full minute that you meant what day did I used to watch the Brady Bunch. (And I had typed in a text “every school day at 4:00 and 4:30)
B: I meant what day was your BDAY
K: I don’t have any plans at the moment. In either direction. Sometimes I go back and forth.. / Yeah – I figured that out!
B: What’s your interest in me?
K: I assume ppl have been interested in you before…
B: True
K: First, I think you’re fun to talk too. I like sizing other ppl up. / And you seem to be private, which I also like / And probably pretty independent too, which I also like
B: I am a ton of fun. I am super private & do not talk out of school. I am safe. Does that make sense? / I am all of that & more
K: Safe?
B: Like I am private / Don’t talk out of school / With what I do or who I hang with / Do I aggravate you?
K: Haha no! / According to John, you may occasionally talk out of school
B: He said that about me?
K: But that’s none of my business
B: With respects to what exactly?
K: None of my biz
B: So then why invite me to your house party? / Now I am aggravated
K: Tonight’s house party or last week? / Omg why??
B: Last week / Like why would he talk shut about me?
K: Because we all like you. Everyone does. Geesh.
B: You just said he talked shit about me
K: He wasn’t talking shit at all. He always says how much he likes you. Just mentioned “Brian Does all right for himself.” / He has not said one negative thing about you ever. I just didn’t think you were THAT private, that’s all.
B: I am about a lot of things
K: Don’t be so sensitive
B: I am good
K: Oh geez. Are your panties in a twist now? Stop
B: Nah, my boxers are just fine
K: Ok, so you’re not gonna run your work truck through the gears tonight? I thought you were tons of fun.
B: No, I am not. As much as I would like to. / Moving on to the next call?
K: Huh? / Will you stop?
B: You sensitive again?
K: I can’t really follow your thought process / You keep kind of insulting me a little..
B: I am still confused why you want to hang with me. It’s all so out of left field. / No, I am not
K: Are you single?
B: Yes
K: I don’t think it’s out of left field / Wasn’t I already begging you to come over last Saturday??
B: You getting my number from Melissa & reaching out to me?
K: And on vacay and prbly a few other occasions?
B: You did t really beg
K: I asked at least twice / How do ppl usually reach out to each other??
B: Why would I have thought you had any interest in me? / Ummm, usually do it when they do live with someone / Do not
K: Maybe, maybe not.
B: So you have sent me signs before? / Did I miss them?
K: John and I have had a lot of ups and downs. And we already did this nearly 20yrs ago. And there’s kids involved that get attached and things get muddy. I don’t know what the answer is. But I feel very strongly that I’ve put my best effort in with all three of them. And the extended family too. At some point it gets frustrating and my actual feelings take precedence.
B: I get it / I am not denying that or that it gets tough / Do you remember anything you said to me there other night?
K: I’m just trying to explain where I’m coming from / Yes
B: I get it
K: I deleted it because I didn’t want to do my own text Walk of Shame / But I’m pretty sure I remember everything
B: Ummm, ok / So don’t you think it would complicate and confuse your situation if we hung out? / Fair question?
K: Probably / Do you only do things that simplify your life? / Nope I complicate my life on the regular
K: Yeah so does everyone else
B: Just so you know I thought you were extremely hot off the rip. Amazing personality. / I could go on and on but I do not wanna pump your shut up too much
K: Thanks for saying that But low comps at Hillside
B: You know how to ruin something nice / I frequent other places
K: John has showed me about five times the Ring video of me walking you out on Sat and my voice and my accent are killing me softly (vomit emotion)
B: Ummmm / What????
K: Yeah. he has cameras everywhere. You cops (emoji)
B: Jesus
K: He’s like “Christ, are you guys hooking up??”
B: OMG, great / I don’t need drama dude
K: No it’s fine
B: Seriously
K: I am serious!
B: You legit planted one on me
K: I know where the cameras are anyway duh / Omg bruins
B: So your slick move isn’t on there????
K: Course not
B: OMG / I almost (vomit emoji)
K: It was a peck anyway. I kissed Kerry and gay Jeff too.
B: Yeah, weak / I agree
K: Lol. Funny
B: So now he is jealous of me?
K: No! / I told you he likes you a lot.
B: Which makes this worse?
K: You said or did something at the bar last week and he goes “I like Brian more and more”
B: I think he is a good dude too
K: Yeah he is
B: Funny / What’s your end game? / What do you want from me? / You will just confuse the shot out of yourself / Shit / Because I am a lot of fun
K: So am I / I’m sure more fun than you
B: How so? / Details
K: I don’t know. I hate people on the whole but I’ve been told by many ppl that I am a lot of fun. I don’t do anything half ass. Nothing.
B: Hmmmm / So what do you want from me?
K: I don’t know..? / I just like you so I reached out…
B: You have zero idea?
K: Nope
B: Oh god
K: (eye roll emoji) / What now? / Why ‘oh god’?
B: Because I need some direction
K: Well I’m not an f’g oracle, sorry
B: That’s actually funny / Do you eventually get what you want?
K: I told you – RARELY
B: So you’re a quitter
K: A realist
B: So you reached out to me, a ballsy move. Now what?
K: The things I’ve worked the hardest for have meant the most.
B: Does Melissa know you dig me?
K: Ballsy? Not really. I already know you.
B: True, but you have a man
K: I figured if you text w Melissa, you’d def text w me
B: She isn’t trying to hang with me.
K: Of course she is!?
B: Plus I never really texted with her other than to see if they were headed out.
K: I asked you over, is what. You made excuses. That’s fine. But I’m not asking again ; )
B: She doesn’t like me like that?
K: I’m sure she does
B: What makes you so sure?
K: Bc she said “I’d live to set Brian up w my sister. She deserves such a good guy like him.”
B: That doesn’t mean she wants to bang me heeself
K: and I think Lito is kind of a dink, so I’m sure Melissa likes you a wee bit
B: Herself / Yeah, he is interesting
K: Have you always had trouble accepting compliments?? Yeesh
B: No, it at all / All yours came to me after a day of drinking / You were way more all over me that day (Read reacts with question mark)
K: So what? Don’t most compliments come that way??
B: Like all over me with compliments and how you felt
K: It was 3:30am
B: It was fun
K: I’ve complimented you today too!! (angry emoji)
B: & kicked my nutz in
K: Omg how??
B: If I had more notice I would have grabbed a drink somewhere. So I am all set with……”That’s fine but I am not asking again”
K: Well it was 7pm. And I’m super cool. So right, now asking again
B: Coming to your house would have been bad for both of us. For started you wouldn’t have wanted me to leave.
K: Now=not / That sounds good
B: That’s trouble……. / Because you would have made me stay / Locked me in your room
K: No I wouldn’t have / Haha you wish. / I don’t share a bed with anyone ever / I have my own room in Canton
B: What
K: Yeah I think sharing a bed is archaic
B: Is that the one you wanted me tk stay in?? / You sit like to be spooned??? / You don’t
K: Not for more than a minute or two
B: Weird you would rather sleep alone
K: I’ve got to make my sleep count! / So doesn’t everyone / Honestly, I am the world’s lightest sleeper. I can hear an ant crawling across the floor. And I wake up almost hourly, which isn’t fair to whoever I’m sleeping with.
B: Ok / Bet Melissa isn’t like that / Ha Ha / Lori wouldn’t like that
K: I know for a fact Melissa isn’t like that / She told me she can’t even fall asleep unless they’re spooning. Lito rolled his eyes and pointed a gun at his head / You’ve prbly got to work on your “truck”. Talk soon
B: Whatever
K: Lighten up Francis
B: Let me know when you figure your shut out
K: That’s a tailor made joke for an Army vet / No one else has it figured out, why do I?
B: Combat vet
K: I didn’t say non-combat / I told Sat I think you’re hot and since told you how cool I think you are. Maybe you’re actually a jerk. What do you want me to say/do? / I’m pretty sure you’re seeing people too
B: I am not a jerk. Don’t change the narrative to suit yourself. Own your words.
K: I don’t think you’re a jerk / I don’t have simple answers to your questions
B: It’s actually simple / What do you want from me? What do you desire?
K: To start, I would just like to hang out. Because I like to talk to you and hear what you have to say. / If that’s it, I’d be happy
B: Ok, I will lock you into that statement
K: That’s fine
B: I suspect you will give up eventually. Just so you know I will still be your friend.
K: Clearly you’re trying to give me the Heisman
B: No, not at all / Why would you say that?
K: Because I’ve tried and I’m failing
B: Tried what? / Failing what?
K: Hot and personality and what else? What’s the “I could go on and on” part? Bc it feels like a Heisman sugar-coated w a few compliments. That’s okay. / I asked you over. On a seemingly uneventful Tuesday
B: Yea, with zero heads up. I have to get up at 4:30am. / Didn’t hear from you yesterday at all so I should have been a mind reader that you were going to extend an offer to your crib for a drink. / If you wanna give up that’s on you. / You’re being silly / For the record
K: No I’m busting your chops. It’s okay
B: No, you’re sensitive / Nice try / You don’t think if I came over for a drink we would have got carried away?
K: YOU said you were adaptable and tons of fun. I took that as an invite for an invite.
B: Oh, ok
K: I’m 42. I know what happens when you invite someone over for a drink.
B: You’re the master of avoidance / So you think I would just give it yo to you? / Give it up
K: I’ve been a lot in my life. I have a little bit of a carpe diem mindset. / Been through / What am I avoiding?? / I’m not afraid to be direct
B: Some of my questions
K: Okay, which? Ask again?
B: Nope / Trix are for kids
K: I’m pretty sure we would’ve hooked up
B: Ok
K: I can’t say that?
B: Of course you can
K: Did I miss any other questions sir?
B: Probably / Are you having a drink right now?
K: Yeah, on my second
B: Show me what you got
K: I went for some wine and downgraded to a mudslide – the Taunton in me (picture of her drink)
B: Ha Ha / I had to make another one because you got me all worked up
K: I could’ve made it for you weirdo
B: Sure you could have done a lot
K: And you got yourself worked up buddy
B: Yup, I am / That a crime?
K: Are you annoyed?
B: Kinda
K: Why??
B: because you there this offer on me last minutev / Threw
K: You could’ve made three round trips by now
B: Oh I bet / Crickets
K: Four round trips..
B: Bite me
K: Geez that’s fresh / So you only say, like, one nice thing per day? Tough
B: You’re impossible / LMK when you figure this out
K: You’re impossible / I’ve been pretty straightforward / You’re wishy washy / What do YOU want from ME?
B: Doesn’t matter
K: Ok then

Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022. 10:08 a.m.

B: Sup
K: Sup
B: You tell me playa
K: Just working remotely (eye roll emoji)
B: Sweet / From Mansfield?
K: Yup / You?
B: I am in Canton at the moment / I want to drink / Ha Ha / Is that bad?
K: Really? / I think day drinking once a week is okay / Go celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Tuck Rule (beer emoji)
B: I can wait until tonight

Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022. 1:07 p.m.

K: Where are you planning on heading?
B: Not sure

Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022. 3:34 p.m.

K: I’d invite you over here but you prbly have your work truck (eyeroll emoji)
B: Here we go……
K: I assume that’s a pass. No prob. (Higgins reacts with question mark)
BL What’s wrong with you
K: Excuse me?
B: I didn’t answer fast enough?
K: Huh? Where’d you get that from / You’re tough to make plans with. I’m headed out shortly. I tried (shrug emoji)
B: Where too?
K: I’m meeting my friend in town till about 7 and then likely make my way back.
B: Ok / (Glasses emoji) / (sunglasses emoji) / Where are you headed back too shady?
K: I assume that means shady? (eyeroll emoji) / I’m meeting my gal pal (who’s from Canton / Back to Mansfield
B: Do I know here? / Name?
K: I don’t think so…Julia Mellon? Lives on Sherman
B: Hmmmm / I am not trying to be difficult / I just don’t want any drama for either of us
K: I don’t either
B: Ok / Trust me I am tempted
K: I don’t think it’s a big deal.
B: What you coming over to my place?
K: Or you coming over mine
B: Ummmm, ok / You clearly are getting aggravated with me & my lack of particiupation
K: No! I’m not aggravated at all.
B: Ok
K: We’re good. I will see you around.
B: I knew this is how you would act / Whatev / You can get most any guy you want so you’re not losing any sleep over this.
K: None of that is true! / I am not talking to any other guys. And I have issues with John and things are far from perfect. You just happen to know about him bc we all hang out at the same bar. I’m sure you talk to other girls. That’s what single ppl do. I’m not married and neither are you. Neither is John.
B: Was that your attempt at a lecture or deductive reasoning? / What do you want from me?
K: That’s just how I think/feel. You don’t need to approve. / I’ve already answered that last question…a couple times, I think..
B: I am not judging you / Never have never will
K: You shouldn’t. / I don’t know what your private life is about. Nor is it my business. / You just happen to know that I see someone. I don’t have kids and I’m not married.
B: Aren’t you afraid you might actually like me……
K: I don’t think that’s a bad thing. Isn’t that the point?
B: Well, it would be complicated because you have a boyfriend. / Funny you said we are a lot alike….cause we are
K: Yeah life never stays the same. Things always change
B: Ok
K: Why are we alike? According to you?
B: Because we go with our gut and how we feel. Isn’t that kinda what you told me?
K: Yes that’s true
B: Have a good night. You’re clearly irritated. / Sorry to bother young / You
K: Either texting is bad or you’re sensitive. I’m not irritated at all. I swear. / I had been going out with someone for a few years when I reconnected with John. And John and I got on very well at the same time so I broke it off the other guy. He was prbly starting to see other ppl if I was completely honest w myself. / I don’t feel bad about any of that. I think it was meant to work out that way.
B: So what’s your point? / Are you legitimately interested, unhappy in your relationship, made because you saw him all over another girl or a hybrid of all of it.
K: My only pt is that there’s a difference between being married to someone and dating them. And we have no intention of EVER getting married. The pt of dating is not to get tied down if you’re not confident you should be. In my mind anyway. / The first two, but I don’t care too much about the other girl.
B: Ok, so he is cool with you dating other people?
K: And I’m not happy per se, just realistic that there’s cracks and it’s far from perfect / I doubt it. / If he is seeing someone else I wouldn’t want to know either way. He prbly feels the same. And you prbly feel that way about whoever you hook up with. I think that’s normal.
B: You make some valid points.
K: No shit Sherlock
B: (middle finger emoji)
K: C’mon, I’m funny!
B: Sit on that & spin
K: See now you have to go below the belt
B: Love it there / Do you wear belts?
K: Only once in a while
B: Ok
K: When I go into the office
B: Ok
K: Rando
B: Ha Ha / I was teasing you / You getting all dressed up for me? / Ha Ha
K: I pretty much wear all black every day
B: Love it / Where are you going in town?
K: Newbury. She works there
B: Doing?
K: She works for my friend who’s a plastic surgeon. That’s how I know her. Coincidence she lives around the corner.
B: So funny / Around the corner from your second home / Ha Ha
K: Oh haha (eyeroll emoji) / I had come downtown earlier so told her I’d meet her for a drink
B: You there now? / You would like my spot at the Cape / I have a great spot for dinner & drinks down there
K: Are you there tonight? / Im a beach worshipper
B: (photo of a drink in a glass)
K: Where’s that?
B: I am in West Roxbury / A spot in the West Rox/Dedham line. / I have a pass to drive my Jeep on the beach. / Lots of fun to be had
K: I heard. I used to rent with my friends on the beach for seven straight years. I miss it. I’ve been thinking about moving to Tiverton.
B: I can give you all the “beach life” you can handle. / Stopping by for a drink later?
K: By where?
B: My spot in West Rox
K: Prbly not for a bit..
B: Ok…..
K: At a bar?
B: I wasn’t suggesting anytime soon / I know you’re with your friend / I meant my house
K: Prbly after 8
B: Ok / If you don’t wanna that’s fine / No pressure
K: I will. A drink. (Higgins reacts with question mark)
B: What do you drink? / Are you out now?
K: Sorry – I’ll drink whiskey if that’s what you’re having
B: Ha Ha / Send me A pic of you two
K: I usually drink whatever the person with me is having
B: Oh ok
K: I don’t take selfies either / I don’t really even know how
B: Whatever / I wanted to see your smile
K: Ugh I hate having my photo taken
B: Weak
K: Sorry. I am a very particular person.
B: What’s that mean / Ok, never mind / Go enjoy your friend
K: Go clean your house will ya?
B: My shit is spotless
K: Haha I figured
B: My shot is tight / Shit / Sure you can handle this
K: Puh-lease
B: Bite me
K: Stop saying fresh things
B: Why / Are those statements tempting
K: Nope
B: Oh
K: Which statements
B: Perhaps you should drive directly to Mansfield.
K: You said “bite me” like three times
B: Ok
K: 8:30ish too late?
B: For what?
K: Drink
B: No / Why
K: Are we not meeting up?
B: You can stop over / For a drink / Ball(s) in your court
K: Are you gonna give me the address
B: Yeah
K: We don’t have to meet up if you don’t want to. But I’m leaving town now.
B: I am up for a drink
K: Okay should I drive around W Roxbury yelling your name???
B: Ha Ha / Nooo / Where are you now
K: Newbury
B: Do you really want to come over?
K: Only if you want me to
B: Can you take charge
K: I thought we already settled this..
B: Ha Ha
K: Ok well I am in my car now and getting on the highway. This feels like I am forcing you.
B: Not at all / I am game
K: Ok well I’d like to know where the hell im going. Pike or 93.
B: You just want to meet me at the Corrib or do you just want to come over? / Pike I would daub / Say
K: You decide. I don’t know either
B: Whatever you want
K: I don’t either place so wherever you’re comfortable
B: You know anyone in West Rox?
K: I don’t think so
B: Ha Ha / Then just stop by for a drink / Up to you / No pressure
K: Just give me an address. I hate texting while driving
B: Bryant Road / Text me when close
K: Ok
B: I will show you where to print / Park
K: That’s W Rox? It’s not coming up
B: Yea / Then put Boston in
K: (shows a screen grab of a mapping app suggesting a Bryant Drive in Roxbury Township in New Jersey)
B: First one / What app do you use / Turn around on the street. Park at the top of the street across from the red mini van. / LMK when you’re here.
K: HEre
BL Ok

Wednesday Jan. 19, 2022. 11:13 p.m.

K: Home. Alive. (wink emoji)
B: Cool / Thoughts?
K: Maybes.. / You?
B: What?
K: You asked my thoughts?
B: You didn’t answer
K: I don’t know my thoughts…
B: Ok, I think I get it
K: You have any??

Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022. 12:27 p.m.

B: Hi, how is your day?
K: Good, yours! / ?
B: I am exhausted
K: Yeah that makes two of us.
B: But I want a drink lol
K: Really? I’ll give you Hardy’s digits
B: Who????
K: Hardy from 98.5 midday show? He hangs out at the Currans sometimes. He’s a spokesperson for Recovery Centers of America
B: Ha Ha / I don’t have a problem
K: Kidding
B: I know

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022. 7:58 p.m.

B: (some kind of photoshopped photo of Tom Brady shirtless and running across an end zone throwing a peace sign, maybe)
K: Good riddance
B: Ha Ha / Stranger / Stranger
K: Hey I was at Hilly all weekend
B: Have not heard from you

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022. 9:40 p.m.

K: Phone works (emoji showing a double-ended arrow, implying two ways)
B: Thought you were all set?
K: With talking? No..
B: Hmmmm / You sure

Friday, Jan. 28, 2022. 11:32 p.m.

B: Ummmmmm / Well

Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022. 11:54 a.m.

K: John died