Page 432 of Good Boys Don’t Bite

“Camera crew.”

Her face emptied.

“No.”

“Yes.”

“You’re sure?”

“No.”

“Ronan.”

“I think.”

He pulled out his phone. No pictures. Maybe security. Thomas. Main house cameras.

“Call my dad.”

Vance was already moving. Ronan followed. Bell behind.

“What did he look like?”

Ronan described. Dark hair. Maybe thirty. Thin. Pale eyes. Cap. Vance called dispatch. Then Thomas. No answer. Ronan’s stomach dropped. Again.

“Dad.”

He called. Nothing. Rebecca. Nothing. His pulse slammed.

“No.”

Vance spoke into radio.

“Units to Vale residence now.”

Ronan grabbed his jacket. Vance blocked him. “Stay.” “No.” “Ronan.” “My parents are there.” “Police are going.” “I’m going.” “Saint wants you moving.” “I don’t care.” Vance stared. Ronan stopped. There. The trap. Again. Every time. Move because fear says move. React because love says react. No. He breathed. Once. Twice. “Fine.” Vance blinked. “What?” “I stay.” Bell stared like Ronan had begun levitating. Ronan looked at Vance. “But call them.” “I am.” Another ring. Then Thomas answered. Ronan almost collapsed. “Dad.” “Hey.” Ronan closed his eyes. “Where are you?” “Main house.” “Mom?” “Upstairs.” “Are you okay?” Pause. “Yes?” Thomas’s voice sharpened. “What happened?” “The camera installers.” “What about them?” “How many?” “Three.” “Names?” “I don’t know.” “Are they gone?” “One is still outside.” Ronan’s blood went cold. “Dad.”

“What?”

“Lock the doors.”

Silence.

“Now.”

Thomas immediately understood something was wrong. Ronan heard movement.

“Rebecca!”

Vance grabbed the phone.

“Mr. Vale, this is Detective Vance. Do not approach the worker. Go upstairs, lock yourself in a room, stay away from windows.”

Thomas swore. Ronan paced. No. Stop. He forced himself still. Vance continued.

“Officers are less than four minutes away.”

Then Thomas whispered: