“Which friend?”
“Kelly.”
Mercer nodded.
“We’ll speak to Kelly.”
Vanessa looked over her shoulder.
“You are making this into something it doesn’t need to be.”
Mercer kept walking.
“I agree.”
The words bothered her.
“What is that supposed to mean?”
He did not answer.
Outside, the afternoon heat felt heavier.
Cole opened the rear door of the patrol SUV.
Vanessa stopped.
“No.”
Mercer looked at her.
“Get in.”
“No. I will leave.”
“You’re under arrest now.”
“No, listen. I said I’ll leave.”
“That opportunity passed.”
“You said if I left, I wouldn’t be arrested.”
“I gave you multiple opportunities.”
“I’m agreeing now.”
Mercer shook his head.
“Get in the vehicle.”
Vanessa’s voice changed.
The anger thinned.
Something frightened entered it.
“I have children.”
Mercer’s expression softened, but his instructions did not.
“We know.”
“I can’t go to jail.”
“You’re going to be processed.”
“For what?”
“I’ve already explained.”
“No, you haven’t.”
“Yes, I have.”
“Tell me exactly.”
“Disorderly conduct related to intoxication, refusing lawful orders connected to the property removal, and resisting detention.”
Vanessa shook her head rapidly.
“No. No. That’s insane.”
“Get in.”
“I wasn’t drunk.”
“That will be documented.”
“I was having drinks at a hotel pool.”
“That isn’t the only issue.”
“I will leave.”
“Vanessa.”
She looked into the back seat.
Then at Mercer.
Then at the hotel entrance.
Several employees were watching through the glass.
Vanessa lowered herself onto the seat.
But she left both legs outside.
Mercer waited.
“Put your legs in.”
“Can I call my children?”
“We’ll handle the children.”
“Can I call Kelly?”
“Once you’re secured.”
“I need to know my daughter is okay.”
Cole stepped beside Mercer.
“Kelly is with both children. I already spoke with her. They’re fine.”
Vanessa looked at Cole.
For the first time all afternoon, her face became quiet.
“They’re with her?”
“Yes.”