The Bound Between Us

Chapter 919

Harry's voice sent a jolt through Hank, but he kept his cool-he was trained for this.

With a bashful look, Hank glanced up and played his part: "Are you Mr. Deng?" He pitched his voice soft, almost lilting, just enough to pass for a woman.

"That's me," Harry answered, sliding into the seat with a broad grin. "Crystal, you're even more beautiful than your photos."

Hank ducked his head, feigning shyness. "Oh, Mr. Deng, you're too kind."

"I never joke about these things." With a flourish, Harry pulled out a pricey designer handbag, easily worth a small fortune, and set it before Hank. "Crystal, a little something for you-love at first sight."

Hank's eyes widened. "Wow, it's gorgeous, Mr. Deng. You're so generous!" He didn't know the first thing about luxury goods, but he made a show of adoring it, thanking Harry over and over. Harry didn't suspect a thing.

From across the restaurant, Monica and Anastasia had been watching since Harry walked in. Monica knew Hank and Jason were on an actual case tonight.

Jason, listening through his earpiece, kept tabs on everything. Hearing Hank handle it so smoothly, he finally let himself breathe.

Now, they just needed Harry to make his move-then it would be an open-and- shut case.

After dinner, Harry suggested a stroll down by the river.

It was a classic move; the last victims had all been lured to places like this— isolated, dark, no cameras, no people. Too easy.

Hank knew what was coming, but he smiled. "Great idea! I ate too much anyway a walk will help."

woo. It didn't matter how beautiful his date was-his mind

apps, always women who were used to meeting strangers, who wanted to get something out of it. They thought they were playing the game, but Harry was

expensive gifts helped. Every time, he'd bring a designer bag, hand it over. Once it was over, he'd just

Hank tonight? The same one he'd used on the last victim. Hank followed Harry out to his car, with Anastasia and Monica close behind. Monica spotted Jason's car parked

lip.

worry, I'll be fine." Then

"Yeah. You watch

started his

Harry, slipping in details about their location

river. It was dark, deserted-one of

smiled. "Crystal, let's walk by the water. The breeze

glancing around, doing his best "nervous city girl." "Mr. Deng, it's so dark out here.

Hank's hand. "Don't

felt too big,

your hands are... kinda rough. Almost like

heart skipped a beat,

pulled his hand back. "Oh, you! I grew up poor, always helping out on the farm-cutting grass for the pigs, all sorts of chores. Even in the city, life's tough. My hands

It sounded believable enough.

go. He was only

take care of you." He coaxed. “Let's go a bit further.

bashful card. "Whatever you

walking deeper into