And - great way to start the conversation, because the simple question stopped Scott up short mid-way to taking a seat. It was a short pause, but it was an obvious one - and despite his best efforts he couldn't shake the sudden tension that followed. Scott knew he'd have to tell Isaac eventually, but for whatever reason he was reluctant to say it; saying it made it official, and it also meant admitting he'd been lying to Isaac the whole time.

When he finally replied, he was making an effort to sound casual, straightforward - but there was no hiding the dull, tired edge that came with accepting a hard truth.

"Stiles is gone. He has been since before the bombings."