Page 423 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

“Unfortunately.”

“No.”

Ronan smiled faintly.

“Not deciding today.”

Elliot looked away.

“Fine.”

“Genuine?”

“No.”

“There he is.”

They stayed like that. Hands inches apart. No touching. Elliot stared at Ronan’s fingers. Then quietly:

“I miss you.”

Ronan stopped breathing for half a second. Not I love you. They had said that. Not I need you. That was familiar. Miss. Simple. Ordinary. Painfully normal.

“It’s been one night.”

“I know.”

“You’re pathetic.”

“Yes.”

Ronan smiled.

“I miss you too.”

Elliot looked up. There was so much naked relief in his face that Ronan felt something break inside his chest. No. Not break. Shift. He wanted to touch him. More than anything. He looked toward the officer. Then Elliot.

“Can I get arrested for touching you?”

“Probably.”

“Helpful.”

“I can ask.”

“No.”

Elliot almost smiled. Ronan moved his pinky to the very edge of the table. Elliot looked. Then moved his own. The tips touched. Barely. Probably against the rules. Fuck it. Elliot’s entire expression softened. Ronan kept the contact. One finger. That was all they got. Apparently it was enough. For now.

“I’m still here,” Ronan whispered.

Elliot nodded.

“I know.”

This time, when he said it, Ronan let him. The officer ended visitation at 10:42. Elliot stood. Ronan did too. Neither wanted to move. The officer opened the door.

“Time.”