Daniel continued. "I asked if we were being detained. He said he never said that."
"Did he physically block the door?"
"No."
"Did he order you to remain seated?"
"No."
"Why did you stay?"
"Because he made it sound like leaving would make me a suspect."
Price wrote that down without comment.
Brett said, "That's his interpretation."
Price finally looked at him. "Yes, which is why I'm writing down the words he remembers and the reason he says he stayed. Later, we can separate fact from interpretation."
Brett said nothing.
Price moved to Eli. "You know Officer Kellen?"
"Casually. Long time."
"How long?"
"Years. Town's not that big."
"You friends?"
"No."
"Enemies?"
"No."
"What did you see between him and Maya Williams?"
Eli glanced at Brett. "He grabbed her."
"Where?"
"First her apron and arm. Later, he held her up around here." Eli touched his own upper shoulder and neck area; Price did not copy the gesture.
"What did Miss Williams say?"
"She told him to let go."
"Once?"
"More than once."
"What did Officer Kellen say?"
"He said she was resisting."
"Was she?"
Eli hesitated. "I don't know what police call resisting."
Price nodded. "Then don't tell me whether she was resisting. Tell me what her body was doing."
"She was trying to get his arm off her."
"Good. That I can use."
Brett shifted his weight; Price noticed, but continued writing. She moved to Ruth next.
"You own the diner?"
"Thirty-two years."
"Did you give anyone permission to search your business tonight?"
"No."
"Did Officer Kellen ask for permission?"
"He asked to go behind my counter. I refused."
"Did he present a warrant?"
"No."
"Did he claim he had one?"
"No."
Price wrote again.
Brett spoke. "I never conducted a search."
Price looked at him. "That may be important."