I blink again, my stomach sinking. I've heard about terrible things happening here -- I've been witness to my fair share the past couple of months -- but I'd stupidly hoped that Billy and Teddy weren't involved.

Emphasis on the stupid. For a second I just revel in my own naivety for thinking that my friends were at least safer here than they were at home. Then I just nod, closing up a little. We're at a party and I have a drink in my hand. It takes a lot of effort to not just down the rest of it in one go.

"...where was Billy?"