"L-let me go!"
The woman's voice carried down the road.
One man held her arms while another forced her back against the ground. She struggled beneath them, trying to pull her knees toward her chest, but they were stronger.
"Stop fighting, you bitch."
Her begging grew louder.
People slowed as they passed.
Some watched. Others looked away and hurried on, pretending they had not heard. A few of the former prisoners stood nearby with amused expressions, making no attempt to interfere.
Nobody went to her.
Since Gaspar took control of Brigantine, people had learned how dangerous it was to draw attention to themselves. Those without weapons or allies kept their heads down. Those who had once relied on Callighan's punishments to restrain the worst men in the settlement no longer knew whom they could turn to.
The woman kept calling for help.
Then a voice cut through the laughter.
"Let her go, or I'll shoot both of you."
The men turned.
Pamela stood several paces away.
