Chapter 9 - The Sirens Outside
Jason froze, the arrogant sneer completely melting off his face as two uniformed police officers walked through the front doors of the restaurant.
“Did you call the cops over a family argument?!” my father panicked, his eyes darting frantically.
“I didn't call them today,” I said, sliding the keys safely into my pocket. “I called them two weeks ago. The morning my car was stolen.”
Jason stumbled backward, bumping into the table. “You... you reported the car stolen? Emily, you psycho, I’m your brother!”
“You’re a thief,” I corrected him.
The officers walked directly up to our table. “We’re looking for a Jason Carter. We got a ping from the tracking device installed in a reported stolen silver crossover outside.”
“Officers, there’s a misunderstanding!” my mother shrieked, running over to physically shield Jason. “He just borrowed it! She’s his sister!”
“Ma’am, step aside,” the taller officer warned. He looked at me. “Ms. Carter? Is this the man who took your vehicle without authorization?”
I looked at my brother. I saw the absolute terror in his eyes. He silently mouthed the word please. For a split second, I saw the little boy I used to play with in the backyard.
Then I looked at the bank statements on the table. The proof that they had gladly watched me suffer in poverty while they stole my future.
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“Yes, Officer,” I said, my voice steady and loud. “That’s the man who stole my car.”
👉 How will the family pay for their crimes, and what will Emily's new life look like?
