The porch fell silent. Completely silent. Two officers stood before me, and Harrison stood behind them as if he owned the law itself. Like he was the boss of the police.
I took a deep breath and stepped forward. My legs shook but my voice didn't.
"You're right. I have the files," I said, loud and clear so the police could hear. "But I didn't steal them. I didn't break in. Mrs. Cullen gave them to me willingly. She wanted me to have them. I also have recordings proving that Mr. Vance has threatened my family for years. Forced my father. I can play them now if you want to hear the truth. Right here."
Harrison's smile weakened for a moment. Just a little crack.
"Recordings obtained without permission may be inadmissible," he replied quickly, lawyer voice. "They cannot be used in court. Do
