Page 85 of Whirlwind

“Ladd wants a lot of things, but none of them have to do with me.”

Another silence. Another deep inhale.

“Beck? Are you getting high?”

“I’m way high and getting higher, baby.” Laughter in the background. “Jude swung by and brought me some goodies.”

“Oh.”

“It’s all legal here in Californiyay.”

“Right. Okay then, I won’t keep you.”

“Where are you? A concert? A party? I hear music and people.”

“It’s Bike Night at Dead Ringers. I’m here with Wes, taking photos. They’re some amazing bikes here from all over. I spotted some members from your step-dad’s club.”

“Oh. Sounds like a good time.”

“Wes is worried about you. He’s been calling you.”

“I know. I’ll call him soon.”

“I’ll let him know.”

“Hey, Violet—I’m glad you called.”

“I’m glad I called too.”

Silence. Silence.

“Bye.”

The ache in my chest coiled at the sound of his weary voice. Another goodbye. “Bye, Beck.”

I tapped End Call, and the wrenching in my stomach twisted tighter. He felt alone, attacked, he was getting high, and God knew what else.

Beck was hurting, and there was nothing I could do.

Or maybe there is.

34

Beck

“Wes, it’s me.”

“Beck, hey. You okay?”

“I don’t know.”

“This sucks balls, man. I’m sorry this shit is happening to you again.”

“I think I need a shaman to clear the evil cloud over me.”

“Come out here and I’ll hook you up.”

“I wish I could.”

---