As she stepped outside with the officer, the cool air hit her like a jolt, but it didn’t stop the tears streaming down her face. People on the street paused to watch, their curious stares cutting through her like knives. She felt utterly exposed, humiliation and fear tangling into a suffocating knot in her chest. They probably think I’m a criminal, she thought, choking back a sob.
The police car loomed ahead, its presence surreal. Kiara climbed into the back seat, her hands shaking as she gripped her bag like a lifeline. She tried to calm herself, but the reality of her situation was overwhelming. Her thoughts spiraled uncontrollably.