Page 25 of In the Air Tonight

I wonder why Neisy decided to report it so many weeks after the fact. Did something else happen? And how did her dad find out? I hope the police arrest Ryder. That would make me feel much better, even if it would still be her word against his. Arlo said something about evidence. I’d love to know what that is.

Nothing would make me happier than to see her prevail against him.

I pick up my phone when I get back to my room to scroll through the vitriol online, all of it directed at the outsider who’s accused one of our own of an unspeakable crime.

The comments are one hundred percent in favor of him and the outsized role he’s played in our class and our lives. He’s been our class president since we were in eighth grade, not to mention his many victories on the field and in the classroom.

Everyone knows now that he’s bound for a career as a naval officer.

Will Neisy’s accusations derail his appointment?

Teagan knocks once before she walks into my room. “Do you know this girl who’s accusing Ryder?”

Those are the first words she’s said to me in days.

“A little. She’s in our class.”

“You think he could’ve done it?”

I shrug, having already decided I can’t trust her.

“He’s probably all pent up because Louisa’s been sick for so long.”

“That’s disgusting, Teagan.”

“It’s true. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was getting busy with a lot of people behind her back.”

“Rape isn’t getting busy.”

“So you think he did it?”

“How would I know?”

“He didn’t do it, Teagan,” Arlo shouts from behind her. “And I’d better never hear you say that again.”

“Take it easy, little brother. I was simply asking Blaise what she thinks.”

“It doesn’t matter what anyone thinks.I know him.I know the truth. Anyone who says otherwise is dead to me, you hear me?”

“I hear you,” Teagan says in a blasé tone. “What do I care anyway? He’s nothing to me.”

“He’s mybest friend, and this could ruin his life. So excuse me if I care.”

“What’s going on?” Mom asks from the hallway.

Arlo glares at our sister. “Teagan is talking out her ass about things she knows nothing about.”

“Shut up, Arlo. I simply asked Blaise if she thought he did it.”

“And I simply said to shut your mouth.”

“That’s enough, Teagan. This is upsetting for Arlo and Blaise. They’re friends with Ryder.”

“I’m not.” It’s important to me to put that out there to anyone who’ll listen.

Arlo looks at me with disbelief. “You grew up with him, Blaise. You may not be best friends with him, but you’re obligated to defend him against an outsider who’d try to ruin his life.”

“No one is obligated to do anything, Arlo,” Mom says. “You do what you need to, and Blaise can do what she wants.”

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