"They always do."
The woman looked between them.
A breeze moved through her long, glossy black hair, lifting a few strands across her shoulders.
She wore an exquisite pale butter-yellow fitted knitted maxi dress with delicate halter straps, a sculpted neckline, an elegant oval cutout along the upper abdomen, and a long textured skirt that followed her figure before opening into a modest side slit.
Her skin was a rich, deep brown. Her almond-shaped eyes were striking, her features refined, and her expression radiated the kind of confidence that came from knowing exactly who she was.
A structured ivory handbag hung from her left hand.
Delicate gold jewelry complemented her dress, and nude high-heeled sandals rested on the clean stone pavement.
She looked as though she were arriving at a luxury wedding reception or an exclusive summer luncheon.
She was actually there for something considerably more serious.
And neither deputy had the slightest idea.
"Listen carefully," she said. "You need to stop touching my vehicle."
The older deputy raised his eyebrows.
"Or what?"
"Or you'll be responsible for the damage you're causing."
He gave a sharp laugh.
"Lady, I'm the one wearing the badge."
"That doesn't put you above the law."
His smile disappeared.
"What did you say?"
The woman held his gaze.
"You heard me."
A small crowd had begun gathering near the courthouse fountain.
The building behind them was a magnificent historic structure with limestone columns, tall arched windows, a broad staircase, and an ornate central entrance.
American flags moved gently beside the steps.
Across the square stood several brick storefronts, a small café, and the office of a local newspaper.
At the center of the plaza, water spilled from the upper basin of a black ornamental fountain into a circular pool.
It was the kind of picturesque courthouse square that appeared on postcards.
On ordinary afternoons, families sat beneath the trees, lawyers hurried between buildings, and residents came to file property documents or attend municipal hearings.
Today, nearly everyone was watching the confrontation beside the Rolls-Royce.
The older deputy noticed the phones.