The obedience and respect was notable. It wasn't the snide little tones that Ronan tended to take with him, and there was something about the immediacy that both bothered and thrilled Frank. He felt very much like the Lieutenant he'd been, once upon a time. Someone worthy of respect and admiration, of that quiet devotion. And Ronan's mouth looked sweet and pliant, when it moved like that, without dislodging Frank's thumb.

"Be a good boy."

The words came out rough and heavy. Frank took his hand away from Ronan's mouth and put them on his belt instead, working it open as he watched the kid.