Page 155 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

Elliot's chest tightened.

“I don't.”

“Then why does it feel like you do?”

Because I do. The answer sat behind Elliot's teeth. He swallowed it. Ronan rubbed both hands over his face.

“I don't think you killed them.”

Not as certain as before. Elliot heard the difference.

“But?”

Ronan looked at him.

“I think you're hiding something that could get you fucked.”

Close enough.

“What if I'm trying to protect someone?”

Ronan froze. Elliot immediately knew he'd pushed too far.

“Who?”

“Hypothetically.”

“No. Fuck hypothetically.”

Elliot almost smiled. Ronan stepped closer.

“Who are you protecting?”

“Maybe the people Mason and Lucas hurt.”

“That isn't your job.”

“They don't trust police.”

“That also isn't your job.”

Elliot looked away. Ronan caught his jaw. Not rough. Firm. Elliot's pulse jumped.

“Look at me.”

He did.

“If you know something that keeps you out of this, you tell Vance tomorrow.”

“No.”

Ronan's expression hardened.

“Elliot.”

“No.”

“Why?”