Alice's POV
"Miss Alice Morgan, or is it Mrs. Hale now?" The taller officer said with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Nice to finally meet you in person."
My throat went dry, and I couldn't speak. The hat slipped from my fingers and hit the floor with a soft thud.
Behind me, I heard Bryan's footsteps. He appeared at my side instantly, his presence solid and imposing.
"Officers," he said, his voice cold and controlled. "I wasn't expecting you until nine AM. That was the agreement."
"Plans changed," the shorter officer said, pulling out a folded paper from his jacket. "We have a warrant for Mrs. Hale's arrest. She needs to come with us now."
"Arrest?" I whispered, the word barely coming out.
"On what charges?" Bryan demanded, stepping slightly in front of me.
