Chapter 7 - A Community DividedThe aftermath of the confrontation brought a different kind of storm. Jason, desperate and vindictive, had gone straight to the police, claiming he had been brutally assaulted by a "violent biker gang member" while trying to visit his daughter.
By the next afternoon, a police cruiser was parked outside Sarah's house. Mrs. Gable stood on her porch, watching with a smug, vindictive smile.
Officer Davis, a veteran cop who knew the neighborhood well, sat in Sarah's living room, taking notes.
"Look, Sarah," Officer Davis sighed, closing his notebook. "I know Jason is a deadbeat. But the man we're talking about is Gideon Walker. He’s got a history with the Iron Disciples. He served time ten years ago for aggravated assault during a club war. If Jason presses charges, and with the neighborhood association constantly complaining about Walker's presence here, my hands might be tied."
Sarah felt a cold dread settle in her stomach. "He didn't assault Jason, Officer. He protected us. Jason broke into my home, grabbed me, and threatened to kidnap my daughter. Bear saved us."
"Can anyone corroborate that besides you?" Davis asked gently.
"I can," a voice rumbled from the front door.
Bear stood there, holding a legal folder. He walked into the living room, completely ignoring the officer's hand instinctively dropping to his holster. Bear placed the folder on the coffee table.
"Those are the restraining orders Sarah filed against Jason in the county court two years ago," Bear said calmly. "And that's a copy of my official rehabilitation clearance from my parole officer, dated five years ago. I haven't had a single violation. I defended a neighbor from an active home invasion."
Officer Davis reviewed the documents, his expression softening. He looked up at Bear, then at Sarah. "Alright. This changes things. Jason's story didn't hold much water anyway. I'll file the report as a domestic disturbance, with Walker acting as a intervening civilian. But be careful, Bear. The neighborhood board is gunning for you."
After the officer left, Sarah looked at Bear, her eyes fierce. "We need to put an end to this neighborhood nonsense. I'm tired of them treating you like a monster."
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Bear gave a sad, wistful smile. "People see what they want to see, Sarah. It’s hard to change a reputation."
"Then we'll change it together," Sarah said, reaching out to squeeze his hand.
