Chapter 52

Bobby waits a little ways off. As Ned approaches, stepping cautiously on the thin sheet of ice that’s formed over the sidewalk, Bobby shouts to be heard over the storm. “Be careful. It’s slick.”

“I know—” Ned’s foot skids over the ice, slipping out from under him, and he feels a sickening lurch in his stomach as he starts to fall.

A strong hand catches his arm. “Careful,” Bobby says again, helping him stand.

In his chest, Ned’s heart beats like a machine gun, rapid fire, adrenaline like bullets ricocheting through him. Bobby holds onto his elbow, then his hand takes Ned’s, the glove Bobby wears coarse against his palm. Ned’s body warms as if his blood has been ignited, liquid trails of kerosene running up his arms and legs to create a fiery blaze that burns in his groin.