Page 103 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

“That's it?”

“For today.”

He looked at Elliot.

“Did they find anything?”

Vance answered.

“We don't discuss preliminary evidence processing.”

Ronan's jaw tightened. Bell touched his arm.

“Leave it.”

Ronan looked like he wanted to do the opposite. Elliot found that strangely comforting. They walked outside. Cold air hit his face. His car remained where he'd left it. Nothing looked disturbed. Ronan stopped beside him.

“You okay?”

“Yes.”

“Actually?”

“Yes.”

Bell handed Elliot a card.

“Call if anyone contacts you again.”

“Thanks.”

“Before answering.”

Elliot smiled. “Understood.” Bell left. Ronan remained. They watched him drive away. Then Ronan turned. “You're not going anywhere alone tonight.” Elliot laughed. “What?” “You heard me.” “You're adorable.” “I'm serious.” “Why?” “Because there's obviously a fucking killer targeting people around Bellweather.” Elliot looked toward the station. “Targeting?” “Mason and Lucas knew each other.” “So do hundreds of people.” “Both had the same freshman thing.” Elliot's attention snapped back. “What?” Ronan hesitated. He hadn't meant to say that. Elliot saw it. “What freshman thing?” “Dylan said Lucas had an argument over a video.” Elliot remained still. “Same freshman?” “Don't know.” “Why didn't you tell me?” “Because every time I tell you something, you turn into Detective Fucking Pikachu.” Despite himself, Elliot laughed. Ronan didn't. “What?” “You were keeping information from me.” “I was trying to stop you obsessing.” Elliot's smile faded. “You don't get to decide what I know.” Ronan stared. “That's rich.” “What does that mean?” “Nothing.” There it was. Again. Elliot's body tightened. “Say it.” Ronan looked away. “Forget it.”

“No.”

“Elliot.”

“You keep acting like I'm hiding something.”

Ronan's eyes returned.

“Are you?”

Silence. The police station stood behind them. Cars passed along the street. Somewhere nearby, a siren started and faded. Elliot looked at him. Everyone had secrets. Ronan. Claire. Dylan. Detective Vance. Mason had. Lucas had. Elliot simply had better ones.

“Yes.”

Ronan froze. Elliot stepped closer. Ronan's voice lowered.

“What?”

Elliot smiled.

“You.”

Confusion. Then understanding. Ronan looked toward the station.