“Crawford tested positive for alcohol.”
Jessica said nothing.
Bennett continued.
“He’s been removed from duty pending investigation.”
“Understood.”
“There are multiple witness statements.”
“I expected that.”
“The MPs documented your arm.”
“Yes, sir.”
A pause.
“He’s also claiming he believed you were committing Stolen Valor.”
Jessica looked through the diner window.
A waitress refilled coffee.
A family sat in a booth wearing Memorial Day T-shirts.
Normal life continued everywhere.
“That may be what he believed.”
Bennett sounded surprised.
“You’re giving him that?”
“I’m saying belief and conduct are different questions.”
Silence.
Then Bennett said, “Understood.”
Jessica continued.
“He could have genuinely believed I was unauthorized.”
“Yes.”
“That still doesn’t justify everything after I told him to release me.”
“No, it does not.”
“And it doesn’t explain the alcohol.”
“No.”
Jessica exhaled.
“Then handle those facts.”
Bennett’s voice softened.
“We will.”
She hesitated.
“Sir?”
