Gerald's radio crackled to life. "Unit 7, this is dispatch. We have multiple inquiries about your current arrest. Please respond."
Gerald snatched the radio from its mount, his long-sleeved uniform stretching tight across his shoulders. "This is Chief Hawkins. What kind of inquiries?"
"Sir, we've received calls from the mayor's office and the governor's security detail. They're asking about an incident at Willow Creek Mansion."
Gerald's laugh was harsh and dismissive. "Tell them we've apprehended a trespasser and everything is under control. Probably just nosy politicians worried about property values."
"Sir, they specifically mentioned the name Lydia Monroe and requested—"
"I don't care what they requested," Gerald snapped, cutting off the dispatcher. "I'm handling a criminal matter here. Chief Hawkins out."
He slammed the radio back into its mount and caught Lydia's eye in the mirror again. "Hear that? Looks like your little stunt is causing quite a stir. Hope you enjoyed your fifteen minutes of fame, because where you're going, the only spotlight you'll see is the one in interrogation."
Lydia's voice was steady and professional when she finally spoke. "Chief Hawkins, I strongly advise you to verify my credentials before this situation escalates further."
"Escalates?" Gerald's voice rose an octave. "Lady, you broke into a mansion in broad daylight. The only thing escalating here is your criminal charges: breaking and entering, trespassing, resisting arrest, and now I'm thinking about adding attempted fraud to the mix."