Page 106 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

“That doesn't explain why.”

Vance didn't react.

“Did Dylan spend the night?”

Ronan felt irritation rise hot and immediate.

“No.”

Lie. Technically. Dylan hadn't stayed until morning. Close enough. Vance looked at him. Ronan stared back.

“Did you and Dylan ever have a sexual relationship?”

There. Direct. Ronan leaned back.

“Why the fuck is that relevant?”

“Because Mr. Price is connected to both victims, and I'm establishing the nature of the relationships around him.”

“That sounds like cop language for none of your business.”

“Maybe.”

Ronan almost smiled. Almost. Vance continued.

“Did you?”

“Once.”

“Recently?”

“Months ago.”

“Before or after you became involved with Elliot Mercer?”

Everything inside Ronan stopped. Not visibly. He hoped. His voice lowered.

“What?”

Vance's expression did not change. That was worse.

“I asked whether your relationship with Dylan predated your relationship with Elliot.”

Ronan stared at her. The room seemed suddenly too quiet.

“You wanna repeat that?”

“I don't think I need to.”

Ronan's pulse had shifted from irritation to something sharper. Not fear. Protectiveness. Immediate. Automatic.

“How the fuck do you know about Elliot?”

Vance placed her pen down.

“We speak to people.”

“Who?”