Chapter 48

“I’ll call Bryan right now. What else can you tell me about the young man?”

“Acting name, Spike, real name—”

“Just a second. No last name?”

“No. According to Paul—”

“Who?”

“Sorry. I don’t think I’ve mentioned him. He’s a good friend, and he and Spike have been together for a couple of years.”

“Ah. I understand. Sorry, please continue.”

“Okay, Spike’s real name is Val Duchesne—”

The last name sounded familiar. “Of the Philadelphia Duchesnes?” Although I kept my tone solemn, I expected Mark to laugh with me. He didn’t.

“Yeah. You know them?”

“I know ofthem. Mrs. Duchesne was on a number of Mother’s committees. Mother didn’t care for her and... encouraged her to volunteer on other committees.”