The pressure shifted the next day and it didn’t stay quiet. The town felt tighter and sharper and less forgiving as police presence doubled and patrol cars lingered longer than they should have.
I left the property anyway and I didn’t announce it and I didn’t wait for permission. I kept my pace steady as I walked toward town and ignored the way the air felt like it was watching me.
I didn’t make it two blocks before the cruiser pulled up beside me and matched my pace and the window slid down slow enough to feel intentional.
“Skylar.” The chief said but I didn’t stop walking.
“Chief.” I replied.
“We need to talk.” He said.
“You always say that.” I replied.
“This time it’s not optional.” He said so I glanced at him.
He cut the engine and stepped out. The door shut harder than
