Chapter 33 - Forging Alliances
Isabella’s husband was a wealthy, influential local businessman, much like Diego had been. When he realized she was gone, he didn't just get angry; he got dangerous.
Two days after Isabella arrived, a sleek black SUV parked across the street from the shelter. A man matching her husband's description stood on the sidewalk, glaring at our front door, trying to intimidate us.
I didn't panic. I picked up the phone and called Detective Vargas.
Vargas was a tough, no-nonsense female detective who had taken an interest in our shelter during the opening. Ten minutes later, two police cruisers swarmed the street, boxing in the black SUV.
I walked out onto the porch, flanked by Elena, watching as Detective Vargas approached the man.
"You are loitering outside a protected domestic violence sanctuary, sir," Vargas stated loudly, her hand resting on her service weapon. "You are in violation of a temporary restraining order issued yesterday."
"I just want to talk to my wife!" the man yelled, pointing at the building.
"Your wife has legal representation and does not wish to speak to you," I called out from the porch, my voice steady and commanding. "If you do not leave immediately, you will be arrested for stalking and intimidation."
The man glared at me, realizing he was outmatched. Vargas stepped closer, her posture aggressive. He cursed, got back into his car, and sped away under police escort.
Vargas walked up to the porch, offering a grim smile. "He won't be back. I’ll station a patrol car at the end of the block for the next week."
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"Thank you, Detective," I said, shaking her hand.
"Thank you, Valeria," she replied. "You give these women a place to stand their ground. We just make sure the ground stays firm."
