Marcus let the phrase—someone like you—hang in the air like a foul odor. By now, at least four phones were held high in the crowd. “I don’t believe that’s relevant to whatever issue you think you’re investigating,” Marcus said.
“Everything is relevant when I’m conducting an investigation,” Hutchins countered. “What were you doing in Nordstrom? What did you purchase?”
“I bought a prom dress for my daughter, along with shoes and accessories,” Marcus replied. “They are in the bags in the back seat.”
“Open the bags,” Hutchins ordered. “I need to verify your story.”
“Officer, I’ve provided my ID,” Marcus said firmly. “I’ve answered your questions. You have no probable cause to search my vehicle or my belongings. I’m respectfully declining to consent to any search.”
Hutchins stepped forward, piercing Marcus’s personal space until they were mere inches apart. “You think you’re smart? You think you know the law? I’m giving you a direct order. Open the bags.”
“I know my rights,” Marcus said, his gaze fixed and unwavering. “And I’m exercising them.”
“You’re obstructing my investigation,” Hutchins growled.
“What investigation?” Marcus challenged. “You still haven’t told me what crime I’m suspected of committing.”