Page 71 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

Dylan sighed.

“Jesus. Hello to you too.”

“Why was Lucas pissed?”

“I don't know.”

“You literally just said you talked to him.”

“That doesn't mean he gave me his fucking diary.”

Ronan started down the stairs.

“What did he say?”

“He'd gotten into some shit.”

“What shit?”

“I don't know.”

“Dylan.”

“I'm serious.”

Ronan stopped on the landing. The stairwell smelled faintly of wet coats and concrete dust.

“What did police ask you?”

“Where he went after we talked. Whether anybody was waiting for him. Whether he mentioned meeting someone.”

“Did he?”

“No.”

“You sure?”

“Yes.”

“Then what are you not telling me?”

Silence. Ronan closed his eyes. “There it is.” “It's not relevant.” “Then tell me.” Dylan exhaled into the phone. “Lucas got into an argument with somebody last week.” “Who?” “Some freshman.” Ronan's eyes opened. “What?” “Not like a fight.” “What kind of argument?” “I don't fucking know. The kid accused him of spreading something.” “What?” “A video.” Ronan went still. For several seconds, the only sound came from someone opening a door several floors above him. “A video of what?” “I don't know.” “You don't know anything today.” “Because Lucas wouldn't explain it.” Ronan leaned against the wall. Mason. Video. Freshman. His mind made the connection before he could stop it. “You said Mason used to collect videos of people.” Dylan went quiet. “Yeah.” “And now Lucas is involved in one?” “Ronan.” “What?” “Don't turn into the internet.” “I'm asking.” “And I'm telling you I don't know.” “Was it the same freshman?” “I have no fucking idea.” “Did Lucas know Mason?” “Everyone knew Mason.” “That's not what I asked.” Another pause. “Yes.” “How well?” “Pretty well.”

Ronan stared through the narrow stairwell window. Rainwater streaked the glass.

“Were they friends?”

“Sometimes.”

“What does that mean?”

“It means Mason was a dick and Lucas could also be a dick.”

Something cold moved through Ronan. That phrase again. Mason could be a dick. Now Lucas.

“What did Lucas do?”

Dylan groaned.