Not yet. The investigation was bigger than one confrontation. If she exposed herself now, six months of work could disappear in a matter of minutes. Travis stopped only a foot away. What are you filming?
His tone sounded almost casual. Almost. Nia looked up with practiced calm. The town. Ryan Mercer and Dylan Hayes joined him, positioning themselves on either side of her.
Eric Nolan remained across the street with Marcus, while Kevin Ross stood halfway between both groups, watching everyone at once. The town? Travis repeated with a crooked smile. That's right. He held out his hand.
Let me see your phone. Nia slipped it into her jacket pocket instead. I'm not required to hand over my personal property. Ryan laughed. You hear that, Sarge?
She knows the law. Travis smiled even wider. I like people who know the law. His eyes hardened. They're usually easier to charge with obstruction.
Linda Foster froze behind the cash register inside her store. She had seen this routine before. It always began politely. It never ended that way. Outside, Marcus gathered his scattered belongings with trembling hands.
He quietly picked up the muddy library book and brushed dirt from its pages. Eric Nolan deliberately stepped on the family photograph before Marcus could reach it. The frame cracked beneath his boot. Marcus closed his eyes. It had been the last picture taken before his father died.
Nia felt anger tighten inside her chest. She forced herself to stay focused. The mission came first. Travis extended his hand again. The phone.
No. For the first time, the smile vanished completely. You're refusing a lawful request? I'm exercising my constitutional rights. Ryan looked toward the growing crowd gathering near the sidewalk.
You hear that? He called loudly. She's giving legal lessons now. A few people looked down. Others quietly walked away.
Nobody wanted to become the next target. Travis suddenly leaned close enough for only Nia to hear. You know what happens around here? No. We don't need permission to make someone's day miserable.
He stepped back. Ryan. Without warning, Ryan reached for Nia's jacket. She pivoted just enough to avoid his grip. The movement was smooth, controlled.