Page 203 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

Vance looked toward him.

“Estimate?”

“Six feet. Maybe six-one.”

Ronan was six-three. Elliot five-eleven. Neither exact. Good. Ronan hated that he thought it. The figure disappeared. Vance paused.

“Recognize the movement?”

“No.”

Ronan looked at Elliot. He was staring at the screen. Too intently.

“What?”

Elliot blinked.

“Nothing.”

Ronan’s stomach tightened. Again. Vance copied the footage. Then the technicians left. She remained.

“Someone entered your property specifically to leave that box.”

Ronan folded his arms.

“We gathered.”

“They approached from a blind area, avoided the primary cameras, and knew enough about Elliot to use an item tied to him.”

Elliot’s face remained neutral. Vance looked at him.

“This person either knows you personally or has spent significant time learning about you.”

Ronan felt something cold settle in his stomach. “Could be Dylan?” Elliot looked at him sharply. Vance answered. “Possible.” “Why would Dylan stalk himself?” “To manipulate you.” Elliot’s expression tightened. Ronan almost smiled. Of course he hated that theory. “Or Claire,” Vance continued. Elliot’s face changed immediately. “No.” Vance noticed. “Why not?” “Because she wouldn’t.” “That isn’t evidence.” “She’s my best friend.” “So?” Elliot’s jaw tightened. Ronan touched his arm. “Easy.” Elliot looked at him. That one touch did something. Enough to soften the anger. Vance watched. Again. Ronan was getting tired of being observed. “Anyone else?” he asked. Vance closed the laptop. “Plenty.” “Helpful.” “I’m not going to invent suspects to make you feel better.” “Could’ve fooled me.” Her eyes moved toward him. Ronan smiled without humor. She ignored it. “We’re putting a patrol through the area tonight.” Elliot immediately said, “No.” Both turned. Vance frowned. “Why?” “I don’t want a police car sitting outside.” “Why?” “Because whoever’s doing this wants attention.” “That’s speculation.” “Still true.” Vance looked at Ronan. He hated being asked silently to choose. “I want the patrol.” Elliot’s jaw tightened. Vance nodded. “Good.” Elliot looked away. Ronan sighed.

“Don’t.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“You don’t need to.”

Vance almost smiled. Then her phone rang. She stepped outside to answer. Ronan looked at Elliot.

“You seriously don’t want police here?”

“No.”

“Why?”

“Because if someone is watching, they’ll disappear.”

“That’s the point.”

“No.”

Ronan frowned.

“What?”