Bennett realized the situation was completely out of control and spiraling into something that would end very badly if she didn't stop it immediately. She looked at Officer Patterson, then at Jennifer, then at the customers watching and recording on their phones. She made a decision. "Do you know who I am?" Bennett said loudly and clearly so everyone in the boutique could hear her.
Her voice carried authority and confidence that made everyone pause. "My name is Amara Bennett. I am the owner and founder of Bellecourt luxury boutique, this store, the one you're accusing me of trying to steal from. I own it. I built this business from nothing, and you're racially profiling me in my own establishment."
The boutique went completely silent. Jennifer's face went pale as the blood drained from it. Several customers gasped. Someone's phone clattered to the floor. Patricia Patterson's satisfied expression faltered slightly.
Officer Dennis Patterson's expression didn't change at all. He didn't believe Bennett for even a fraction of a second. "Nice try," Patterson said coldly, "but lying about who you are and impersonating a business owner just made this a lot worse for you. You're under arrest." Bennett's eyes went wide with shock and fury.
"I'm not lying. I'm the owner. Ask the manager. Check the business registration. Google my name right now."
Patterson pulled his handcuffs from his belt. Turn around and put your hands behind your back. This is illegal. Bennett's voice rose. I'm telling you the truth.
I own this boutique. You're making a massive mistake. Turn around now. Patterson ordered, his voice hard and final. The three dresses Bennett had been holding fell from her arms and landed on the boutique floor as Patterson grabbed her wrist and forced her arm behind her back.
The metal handcuffs clicked closed around her right wrist with a sound that seemed impossibly loud in the silent store. He grabbed her other arm and cuffed it as well, pulling the restraints tighter than necessary. You're arresting me for shopping in my own store. Bennett said loudly, making sure everyone could hear. This is false arrest.