"We still need to check."
They searched.
They found nothing.
When they left, Allison stood in the doorway.
She watched their patrol car disappear.
"She's scared."
Nick nodded.
"Good."
But he didn't smile.
Because fear could make desperate people dangerous.
The Town Hall
By now, the entire community knew.
At the next town-hall meeting, the room was packed.
Allison entered carrying Logan.
He was still recovering.
A small blue blanket surrounded him.
People stood.
They applauded.
An elderly woman wiped tears from her eyes.
"You are our voice," she whispered.
Then Kelly Mason walked onto the stage.
She tried to speak.
"This family is attempting to destabilize our community—"
Someone shouted.
"You attacked a baby!"
Another voice followed.
"You're not above the law!"
Kelly's composure cracked.