Tom ended his call and returned his focus to the unfolding situation. Kevin was now steering Rachel back toward the car, his hand gripping her arm with unmistakable force. Rachel’s wide eyes darted toward Tom again, silently pleading for help. His chest tightened as he saw her subtly repeat the SOS signal, tapping her hand against her leg. Tom adjusted his posture, exuding calm authority as he approached the car. He couldn’t risk Kevin becoming hostile before the police arrived, so he needed to act with precision.
Just as Kevin opened the car door to usher Rachel inside, Tom called out in a firm but non-threatening tone, Excuse me, sir, can I have a word? Kevin froze, his head snapping toward Tom, his eyes narrowed, a mix of annoyance and fear flashing across his face. What do you want? he barked. Tom raised his hands in a gesture of peace, his body language relaxed but deliberate.
Sorry to bother you, I think I may have accidentally clipped your car in the lot. If it’s yours, we’ll need to exchange insurance info. Kevin hesitated, glancing between Tom and Rachel, who was already halfway in the car.
You must have the wrong guy, he snapped. I didn’t hear anything, and my car’s fine. Tom stepped closer, now blocking Kevin’s access to the driver’s side door.
Maybe so, but I’d feel better if we checked to be sure. A quick look can’t hurt. Kevin’s jaw clenched, his frustration mounting.
Tom caught the briefest flicker of panic in his eyes, confirming his suspicions. Kevin wasn’t worried about the car, he was worried about being delayed. Rachel, meanwhile, remained frozen in the back seat, her small frame trembling.
Tom risked a glance at her and offered the faintest reassuring nod. His presence alone seemed to ease her terror, and she responded with the slightest nod of her own. Look.
Kevin growled. I don’t have time for this. Move out of my way.
He made a move to push past Tom, but Tom sidestepped quickly, blocking him again. Sorry, sir, but I can’t let you leave until we settle this. Tom’s tone hardened, his marine training seeping into his words.
It’s protocol. Let’s handle this the right way. Kevin’s eyes darted to Rachel, then to the highway beyond the parking lot.
Tom’s calm yet commanding demeanor seemed to be rattling him. He muttered a curse under his breath, then gestured impatiently toward the car. Fine.
Let’s check. Hurry up. Tom led Kevin around to the back of the car, positioning himself strategically to keep an eye on Rachel while maintaining control of the situation.
As Kevin pretended to inspect the bumper, Tom pulled out his phone again and covertly dialed 911, keeping the line open. I’m here with the suspect, he whispered. He’s agitated but unarmed as far as I can tell.
The girl is in the backseat. I’m keeping them here. The operator confirmed that officers were less than 10 minutes away, and Tom exhaled a silent breath of relief.
Still, every second felt like an eternity. See? Nothing’s wrong. Kevin snapped, straightening up.
Now, if you don’t mind… Tom didn’t let him finish. Actually, there’s something else I’d like to ask, he said, his voice sharp with authority. Can I see your driver’s license? Kevin blinked, caught off guard.
Why the hell would I show you that? Tom folded his arms, his gaze unyielding. You’re acting suspiciously, and I’d like to confirm your identity. It’s a safety precaution.