My identification is in my purse. Then produce it.
I will. She made no immediate movement.
But I'm curious what crime you believe I've committed that requires identification. Ror's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly.
You were observed moving between properties. That raises questions about your business in this neighborhood.
Walking to a neighbor's house raises questions. Danielle's eyebrows lifted slightly.
In my own neighborhood? You claim it's your neighborhood?
I don't claim anything, Sergeant. She read his rank from the chevrons on his sleeve.
I live here. Ask any of these neighbors.
She gestured toward the houses around them. Ask Mrs.
Rodriguez at 431. Ask the Washingtons at 425.
They've known me for years. Hayes glanced toward the houses Danielle had mentioned, but Ror stepped closer, positioning himself directly in front of her.
Ma'am, I need you to explain why you were walking between properties instead of using normal pathways. I used the sidewalk and front walkways.
Danielle's patience began showing strain exactly like any resident would. Residents don't typically trigger suspicious person reports.
What person reported me as suspicious? Ror's hesitation lasted only a moment.
That's not your concern. It absolutely is my concern if someone has made false accusations about me.
Danielle shifted the package again, her grip tightening. I have every right to know what specific behavior prompted this stop.
From the corner of her eye, she noticed movement. Mrs.
Rodriguez had stepped onto her front porch, coffee mug in hand. The elderly woman's attention focused on the patrol cars with obvious concern.
Two houses down, a man emerged to check his mailbox, but remained near his driveway, clearly listening. Hayes cleared his throat softly.
Sergeant, maybe we should verify the address. Standard procedure would be Hayes.
Ror's voice carried a warning edge. I'll decide what procedures we follow.
Danielle watched the exchange with growing understanding. This wasn't about verification or procedure.
This was about control, about who had the authority to ask questions and who was expected to answer them. Sergeant Ror, she said quietly.
I'm going to walk the remaining distance to my house now. If you believe I've committed a crime, then detain me.
If not, I'm going home. She took one step toward her driveway.
Ma'am, you stay exactly where you are. Ror's hand moved toward his handcuffs.
Your cooperation is no longer optional. The street felt smaller with each passing second.