Frank's expression changed.
"Why?"
"Because Mr. Bennett says the truck was legally parked."
The manager leaned closer.
"You calling the police a liar?"
Marcus remained calm.
"No. I'm asking to see the records."
For several seconds, Frank stared.
Then shoved the notice across the counter.
"Pay the bill or get out."
Marcus looked down at the paper.
He could have paid the amount himself.
He had enough money.
But doing so without understanding the charges would leave Walter vulnerable to the same thing happening again.
And it wouldn't explain why a legally parked vehicle had apparently been removed.
So Marcus folded the notice.
Then said quietly, "We'll review the records."
Frank laughed.
"Good luck."
Marcus left.
But as he walked toward the Silverado, he noticed something unusual.
Several vehicles in the lot had the same orange impound tags.
And on the fence beside the office was a sign listing preferred towing services for the Bellhaven Police Department.
Marcus stopped.
He looked toward the sign.
Then back at the rows of vehicles.
For the first time, he wondered whether Walter's experience was part of something larger.
Marcus contacted an attorney the following morning.
Her name was Danielle Foster. She was forty-two, had practiced civil law for almost fifteen years, and had previously helped veterans resolve housing and benefits disputes. She knew Marcus through his father, who once repaired her car when she was a law student with almost no money.
When Marcus explained Walter's experience, Danielle listened carefully.
Then she asked to see the original paperwork.
He sent it.
Two hours later, she called back.
"Some of these charges need explanation, and I want to see the officer's report before drawing conclusions."
Marcus nodded.
"Can we challenge the tow?"
"Possibly. First we need to establish where the truck was parked, whether there was a valid reason to remove it, and what procedures were followed."
He looked toward the towing notice.
"Mr. Bennett can't afford another week of storage."
Danielle sighed.
"I know. We can examine the available options for recovering the vehicle while preserving his ability to dispute the charges."
She paused.
"Marcus, how did you hear about County Line Recovery?"
He explained.
Danielle became quiet.
Then said, "That's interesting."
"What is?"