Page 119 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

Ronan lowered his voice.

“She asked about jealousy.”

Elliot didn't move.

“She asked whether you threatened Dylan.”

That did it. Recognition. Then understanding. Ronan watched the blood drain slightly from his face.

“You told her.”

“I had to.”

“You didn't have to tell her anything.”

“I wasn't going to lie to police about something stupid and make it look worse later.”

Elliot laughed once. Cold.

“Something stupid.”

“That's not what I meant.”

“You told a homicide detective I threatened one of the people connected to both victims.”

“He isn't a victim.”

Silence. Ronan heard it the second he said it. Dylan was alive. Elliot stared.

“Interesting.”

“Fuck you.”

Ronan rubbed his face.

“I'm sorry.”

Elliot looked away.

“She asked whether I thought you could kill someone.”

Nothing moved. Ronan watched him. For one moment, the entire world seemed to reduce itself to Elliot standing beneath the amber light over the kitchen island.

“What did you say?”

His voice was quiet. Ronan didn't hesitate.

“No.”

Elliot looked at him.

“She asked whether I was sure.”

“And?”

“I said I know you.”

Something changed. Small. Deep. The anger loosened. Elliot's shoulders lowered. Ronan stepped closer.