The MP’s expression remained neutral.
“Understood, sir. Please release her while we sort it out.”
Jessica watched Crawford process the request.
He could still do it.
He could open his hand.
Take one step back.
Let procedure replace ego.
Instead, he said, “Not until she identifies herself.”
Jessica’s mother whispered, “Jesus.”
The MP sergeant’s expression hardened.
“Sir.”
Crawford snapped, “What?”
“Release her.”
This time the wording changed.
Not a suggestion.
Crawford looked around.
Every face seemed to be waiting.
He had demanded an audience.
Now he had one.
That was the trap.
Jessica had not built it.
He had.
His fingers finally loosened.
The pressure disappeared.
Jessica stepped back once.
Nothing more.
She rubbed her arm slowly.
Four red marks already showed through the gap at her sleeve.
Patricia moved toward her.
Jessica gave a slight nod.
This time, her mother came.
Patricia touched Jessica’s shoulder.
