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."

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

from dating 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

it over. Once it was over, he'd just take the bag back. No loss on

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 up the street and hurried over. "Jason!" Jason rolled down the window. "You two head home. I've got to stick with Hank." No time for

bit her lip. "Be

"Don't worry, I'll be fine." Then

nodded. "Yeah. You watch

his car and

made small talk with Harry, slipping in details about

deserted-one of those places where, if you

the water. The breeze

city girl." "Mr. Deng, it's so dark out here.

"Don't

Hank's hand felt too big, too

hands are... kinda rough. Almost

heart skipped a

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

It sounded believable enough.

He was only focused on getting Hank

it rough. But now you've got me I'll take care of you." He coaxed. “Let's go a bit further. There's a nicer view

feet, playing the bashful card. "Whatever you say,

kept walking deeper into