A stocky officer with aggressive posture, moved toward the driveway. The third, older and more cautious, stayed near the sidewalk. "Sir, they have keys," the young officer said. "Maybe we should—"
"Cole, shut your mouth," Pike snapped. "Keys don't prove ownership. Burglars carry tools." Maya felt heat rise in her chest.
Burglars, we grew up in this house. Our family has owned this property for almost 30 years. Prove it, Pike demanded. Naomi gestured toward the open front door.
The deed is inside. So are utility records, tax documents, family photos going back decades. I can show you everything. Nobody goes inside until I say so.
Pike's voice hardened. You two are coming down here now. Why? Maya asked.
We're standing on our own porch. Pike's jaw tightened. Because I'm ordering you two, one at a time, hands visible. Cole shifted uncomfortably.
Sergeant, they both have credential wallets. I can see the clips beneath their jackets. I told you to shut up, Cole. Pike never took his eyes off the twins.
Those could be anything. Fake IDs, stolen wallets. Counterfeit badges. Criminals carry props.
The stocky officer, Shaw, grinned. Want me to go up and get them, Sergeant? Not yet, Shaw. Pike studied the twins with predatory patience.
I'm giving them one chance to cooperate. Naomi's hand moved slowly toward her jacket. Pike's entire body tensed. Easy there.
Keep those hands where I can see them. I'm reaching for my phone, Naomi said calmly. To call our lawyer. No calls, no movement.
You come down here first, then we talk. Maya stepped forward. Why are you treating homeowners like criminals? Would you be doing this to two white women standing on their own porch?
Pike's face flushed red. The question hit exactly where Maya intended. Don't make this about race. This is about suspicious behavior and failure to comply with lawful orders.
Lawful orders? Naomi's voice stayed level, but her eyes flashed with anger. You have no warrant, no probable cause, no authority to order us off our own property. Behind Pike, the older officer, Mercer, looked increasingly uncomfortable.