Page 134 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

“Yes.”

Elliot's stomach tightened. Ronan glanced back. A tiny warning. Don't react. Vance asked, “The entire time?” Ronan hesitated. Fuck.

“I was working downstairs.”

“Was Elliot with you?”

“Some of it.”

“Some?”

“He went upstairs.”

“What time?”

“I don't remember.”

“Did you see him again before morning?”

Ronan's face changed. Elliot felt cold. The couch. They had fallen asleep together Wednesday night. Wrong night. Tuesday. Lucas disappeared Tuesday. Ronan had been working. Elliot had been home. Mostly. Vance watched him think.

“Not until morning,” Ronan said.

Elliot's pulse accelerated. Vance wrote something.

“Did you leave the house?”

“No.”

“Vehicle?”

“No.”

“Anyone confirm?”

“Elliot.”

Vance's eyes moved toward him. Elliot smiled faintly. There. They were becoming each other's alibis. That could either help enormously or collapse beautifully.

“Why are you asking him this?” Elliot said.

Vance looked toward him.

“Mr. Mercer.”

“You already asked me.” “Yes.” “And I told you he was home.” “You told me you saw him before midnight.” Elliot said nothing. She remembered every word. Of course. Ronan looked back. That tiny difference mattered now. Vance continued. “Ronan, do you own a black hooded jacket?” Ronan laughed. “Probably five.” “Baseball caps?” “Yes.” “Black gloves?” “Yes.” Elliot's body went still. Ronan didn't notice. Vance did. Her eyes flicked toward Elliot for less than a second. “Motorcycle helmet?” “Obviously.” “Full-face?” “Yes.” “Black?” “Yes.” Vance nodded. Ronan's irritation grew. “Are you seriously listing every dark-colored item I own?” “We're eliminating possibilities.” “You people love that phrase.” Elliot nearly smiled. Vance didn't. “Would you consent to us photographing several items?” “No,” Elliot said. Ronan turned. “Jesus Christ.” Vance looked at Elliot. “You aren't being asked.” “I know.” “Then let him answer.” Something sharpened in her voice. Finally. The first real crack. Elliot smiled. Ronan saw it. “Go inside.” “No.” “Elliot.” Vance watched. Ronan exhaled. “Fine. What items?” “Your jackets. Gloves. Helmet.”

“Why?”

“Comparison.”

“To footage?”

Silence. There. Ronan understood.

“The guy following Lucas.”

Vance did not confirm. She didn't need to. Ronan laughed once.