Then, suddenly—flashing lights cut through the dark. Two police cruisers came from opposite directions, blocking the exit. The motel’s neon flickered in the reflection of their hoods. “Officers are on scene,” the dispatcher said. “You can hang up now, Andrew. Thank you.”
Andrew dropped the phone into the passenger seat and jumped out of his car, unable to stay still. Across the street, the man raised both hands slowly, saying something—too smooth, too defensive.