Officer Grayson emerged from the first vehicle, followed by two other officers. "Jaylen King," Grayson called out, striding onto the court. You need to come with us. The game stopped. Everyone turned to stare.
What for? Jallen asked, the basketball still in his hands. There was a disturbance reported. Witnesses say you were involved. What disturbance?
I've been here for the past hour. Grayson approached, handcuffs already out. Don't make this harder than it needs to be. Jallen's friends protested. He didn't do anything.
We've all been right here. But Grayson wasn't interested in their testimonies. This was personal now. A power play meant to put Jallen in his place. To prove that Grayson was in control.
Turn around. Hands behind your back. Grayson ordered. Jalen complied, knowing resistance would only escalate the situation. As the cold metal closed around his wrists, he remembered his father's words once more.
"In a room full of wolves, become the quiet storm. Maya watched from across the street, recording everything on her phone. This time she was live streaming it to her private social media account where her father could see it. James Thompson was already calling colleagues before the police cruiser carrying Jallen left the scene. At the station, Jallen sat alone in a holding room, not technically an interrogation room.
He hadn't been charged with anything specific yet, but the message was clear. Grayson wanted him to sweat. Angela arrived at the station in a tornado of controlled fury. "Where is my son?" She demanded at the front desk.
"Jaylen King, an officer, brought him in from the basketball court about an hour ago." The desk sergeant checked his computer. "He's being held pending investigation of a disturbance." "What disturbance?" "My son was playing basketball with friends.
I have multiple witnesses. Ma'am, you'll need to speak with the arresting officer. Then get him now. And I want to see my son immediately. That's not possible right now.
Officer Grayson is processing. Officer Grayson. Angela's voice sharpened. The same officer who is currently under investigation for breaking into my property. The one who's been harassing my son.
He's in charge of this case. The sergeant looked uncomfortable. Ma'am, I understand your concern. No, you don't. Get your supervisor now or the next call I make will be to my lawyer, followed by every news outlet in the state.
While Angela fought to see her son, Grayson entered the holding room where Jallen waited. Comfortable? Grayson asked a smirk playing at his lips. Jallen said nothing. You know I could charge you with assault.