Page 353 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

“They want him to kill someone.”

Silence. Elliot’s face closed. Vance looked between them.

“Why do you think that?”

Ronan swallowed. Because Elliot had killed five people. Because Saint knew. Because good boys earned rewards. Because bad boys got consequences. Because Claire was leverage designed around Elliot’s violence. He could not say all of it. Not yet.

“Pattern.”

Vance stared.

“That’s vague.”

“I know.”

Elliot almost smiled despite everything. Ronan ignored him.

“Saint keeps creating situations where Elliot has to choose between restraint and aggression.”

Vance’s eyes narrowed.

“And you know this because?”

“Because they told us.”

Partly true. Enough. Vance looked toward Elliot. He said nothing. Ronan squeezed his shoulder. Elliot looked at him.

“Don’t give them what they want.”

“I’m not leaving Claire there.” “I didn’t say we leave her.” “Then?” Ronan turned to Vance. “We go together.” Elliot’s face hardened. “No.” Ronan looked back. “Excuse me?” “They asked for me.” “So?” “So if they see you—” “They already know I’m involved.” “That’s different.” “How?” Elliot stared. Ronan understood before he answered. “You think I’m leverage too.” Silence. There. “Yes.” Ronan’s anger softened. Elliot continued. “If you’re there, I have two people to protect.” “I don’t need—” “I don’t care.” There was the Elliot Ronan knew. Possessive. Absolute. Ronan almost smiled. “See?” “What?” “You’re doing it.” “Doing what?” “Deciding for me.” Elliot’s jaw tightened. Ronan stepped closer. “Claire gets a choice.” “Yes.” “Vance gets a choice.” “That’s debatable.” “Shut up.” Elliot almost smiled. “And I get a choice.” Silence. Ronan took his hand. “I’m going.” Fear crossed Elliot’s face. Not anger. That mattered. “No.” “Ask me nicely.”

Elliot stared. Ronan knew exactly what he was doing. Maybe unfair. Maybe necessary.

“You said you’d beg me if I tried turning you in.”

Elliot’s face changed. Vance looked between them with the expression of someone regretting every career choice that had led to this kitchen. Ronan continued.

“Go ahead.”

“Ronan.”

“You want me to stay?”

“Yes.”

“Ask.”

Elliot looked furious. Scared. Embarrassed. Good. Something real. Then:

“Please.”

The word came quietly. Ronan’s chest tightened. Elliot continued.

“Please stay here.”

Fuck. Ronan almost gave in. Almost. He touched Elliot’s cheek.

“No.”