Page 174 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

Elliot's face hardened.

“When?” Vance asked.

“Months ago.”

“Before Mason Kerr died?”

“Yes.”

“Anyone else present?”

“No.”

“Any other threats?”

Ronan shook his head.

“Not that I remember.”

Elliot laughed quietly. Vance looked toward him.

“Something funny?”

“No.”

“Then what?”

“Nothing.”

Ronan closed his eyes. Vance ignored it.

“I want both of you to avoid Dylan for now.”

Ronan frowned.

“Why?”

“Because somebody is watching him.” “Exactly why I should check on him.” “No.” The answer was immediate. Ronan stared. Vance continued. “If this message is intended to provoke Elliot, contact between either of you and Dylan could escalate whoever sent it.” Elliot asked, “You think whoever sent this killed Mason and Lucas?” “I think assumptions are dangerous.” “That isn't an answer.” “No.” Elliot's eyes narrowed. Vance looked toward the closed blinds. “Keep these shut tonight.” Ronan's stomach tightened. “Do you actually think someone's watching the house?” “I think somebody wants Elliot to believe he's being watched.” She looked at Elliot. “That can be just as dangerous.” Then she left. Ronan locked the door behind her. When he turned, Elliot was already walking toward the stairs. “No.” Elliot stopped. Ronan leaned against the door. “We're not doing that.” “Doing what?” “You disappearing upstairs because you're pissed.” “I'm tired.” “You're angry.” “I can be both.” “At me.” “Yes.” There. At least it was honest. Ronan nodded. “Because I told her about the jaw thing.” “Among other things.” “What was I supposed to do?” “Forget it.” “She was looking directly at me.” “So?” “So I'm not lying to homicide detectives because you said something stupid months ago.” Elliot laughed. “Right.” “Don't.” “You really like that line.”

“What line?”

“I'm not lying for you.”

Ronan went still. Elliot continued.

“Every time something matters, that's where you land.”

“Because you keep hiding things.”

“I didn't ask you to hide that.”

“You didn't have to.”

Elliot stared at him. Ronan felt anger building. Not at Elliot. At everything. The police. The messages. Dylan. The fucking mask. The rumors. This house. Himself.

“You know what?” Ronan said. “Maybe stop saying shit about hurting people.”

Elliot's expression changed.