Tyler shadowed the jogger for three blocks, watching her form and demeanor. She didn't look over her shoulder or act nervously; she simply ran. Still unsatisfied, Tyler pulled his cruiser toward the curb, putting the vehicle in park with a deliberate, heavy motion. The woman noticed the police car immediately. Without breaking her calm demeanor, she slowed to a halt and smoothly removed one of her earbuds. "Morning, Officer," she said, her voice steady and polite. Tyler stepped out of his vehicle, resting a hand casually on his duty belt. "Morning. You live around here?"
Chapter 6: The ID Check "I do," the woman replied, offering a polite smile. "Which house?" Tyler asked, his eyes narrowing slightly as he observed her. Without hesitation, she pointed down the street. "The white one near the corner." Tyler's gaze tracked to the sprawling estate she indicated. "I've worked this neighborhood for years," he said, his tone turning skeptical. "I don't remember seeing you before." "That's possible," she nodded understandingly. "I just moved in recently." Tyler crossed his arms over his chest, projecting authority. "Mind showing me some identification?" "May I ask why?" she inquired, tilting her head slightly. "Routine," Tyler answered flatly.s Without a hint of frustration, the woman unzipped a small running pouch at her waist and handed over her driver's license. Tyler scrutinized the plastic card carefully. The address perfectly matched the white house on the corner. Everything was valid. Yet, the lingering doubt in his mind refused to dissipate. Instead of handing the license back and wishing her a good day, Tyler leaned in. "You said you just moved here. When exactly?" "Last week," she answered evenly. "Where'd you move from?" "Virginia." "What brings you to Maplewood?" "Work." "What kind of work?" Tyler pressed further, his voice taking on the sharp edge of an interrogation. "I'll be starting a new position."