Page 6 of Running Scared
Laure:Because I asked Dean’s partner if he was inviting anybody to the family picnic, and Marcus said no, but Dean would if he could pull his head out of his ass.I was curious, that’s all.
Sal:I too am now curious.Not that the tightass would ever tellus, but I feel as though somebody here might know if Dean was seeing anybody.Who’s closest to him?
Laure:Val.
Prock:Val.
Chance:Val.
Reg:Val.
Val:What in the furryhell?Everybody knows Laure is my ride or die!
Laure:I’m still your ride or die, big brother, but you and Dean were always the most alike.You knew he was getting his degree in law enforcement and aiming for Quantico before any of us.If Dean was seeing anybody, you’d know.
Sal:She’s right.So who’s he seeing?
Chance:Reg, you’re my ride or die, right?
Reg:Of course, little brother.I wouldn’t leave you hanging.
Chance:Thanks.Why isn’t Val answering?
Laure:Val?
Prock:Val?
Chance:Val?
Sal:Prince Fucking Valiant, where in thehelldid you go?
Laure:You guys, this can only mean one thing.
Prock:That asshole knows, and he isn’t telling us?
Sal:Wow, Laure, so much for your ride or die.
Laure:Don’t worry—this ride or die has a secret weapon.
Chance:Omg—You guys!Who told Mom to come out and smack my ass?I wasin the pool, and suddenly I have to help Dad clean the garage!And my ass hurts!
Laure:I wouldn’t do that.
Prock:Dude, no.
Reg:Of course not!
Sal:He was bothering me.That kid needs ajob.
Prock:Another reason I wouldn’t dump ants on Dean.Sal, you prissy bitch, you can’t leave the baby alone?
Sal:No, and you guys shouldn’t either.We’re depriving those two of some of the best times of their lives.
Reg:Just wait until one of us draws you for Christmas, Sal.I may be quiet, but I have plans.
Laure:You guys, doesanybodyknow who Dean is dating?
Sal:Princess, if we did, I think it’s perfectly obvious I wouldn’t have resorted to child abuse by proxy to entertain myself.
