Chapter 10 - The Interview Room
Two investigators listened without interrupting while Mara described the cafeteria assault, the threats against Owen, and the documents that had come into her possession. She kept separate columns in her notebook: what she witnessed, what she had been told, and what needed verification.
One investigator, Special Agent Jordan Malik, asked, “Do you believe Voss targeted you because of your brother's complaint?”
“I believe he mentioned a private medical appeal he had no legitimate reason to know about. I don't know how he got it.”
“That's a useful distinction,” Malik said.
The second investigator, Special Agent Leah Grant, asked whether Mara had the original phone video. Mara explained Nina's position and gave Grant a secure way to contact her.
“You shouldn't pressure a witness to hand evidence to you,” Grant said. “Let us handle preservation.”
“I agree.”
Mara left the room feeling drained, not relieved. The evidence was finally in proper hands, but that also meant the process no longer belonged to her.
The following morning, an order placed her temporarily on administrative duties pending review of an alleged disorderly incident in the cafeteria. The document avoided mentioning Voss's role.
She read it twice.
At the personnel office, Price spoke in a pleasant, almost bored voice. “No punishment has been imposed, Staff Sergeant. We just need to reduce friction.”
“You've removed the person who was knocked down.”
“I'm removing the distraction.”
“And Voss?”
“Continuing his duties.”
Mara signed receipt of the order, not agreement with the allegations. She requested a copy and asked how to submit rebuttal material.
Price sighed. “You're making this harder than necessary.”
“Then stop making it necessary.”
Outside, Nina stood waiting with her hands shaking.
“Peter's hearing was moved up,” she said. “He's supposed to answer the equipment charge tomorrow.”
“Did he get counsel?”
“Yes. But he thinks no one will believe him.”
Mara started to reply when Nina's expression changed.
“What's wrong?” Mara asked.
May you like
Nina showed her a message from an unknown account: a photo of Nina's younger sister leaving school, with a simple caption.
TELL THE TRUTH AND SHE WALKS HOME ALONE.
