God knows how much she’s packing.
For several seconds we stood frozen, waiting for peaceful protestors to get away. Every metre counted in this kind of situation.
“You need to back up.” It was the chief’s voice in my earpiece.
“Didn’t know you were here, sir.”
“Gotta keep an eye on my men…and women.” He paused. “Now retreat. We have no idea what the reach of that explosive is.”
“In a moment, sir, let me…”
The woman had terror in her eyes and her hand was shaking.
“Officer Sweeny. Now.”
I ignored him. “What’s your name?” I called.
“Get away from me,” she shouted, spittle joining the words.
“We’re nowhere near you and we’re not coming closer, ma’am.”
She pointed at Balko. “Gethimaway from me or this goes up.” She undid the top button on her jacket and it fell open.
“Sme tu na hovno,” Balko muttered.
“Which means?”
“We’re really in the shit.”
I huffed. “Yep. You could say that.”
“I just did.”
“I mean it, get him away.” The woman shook her hand, the one holding the detonator.
“Retreat, Balko.”
“And leave you?”
“Your manliness is clearly freaking her out.”
“Damn it.” He took a step back. I knew it was against his instincts and was impressed that he’d obeyed my order.
“I only want to talk,” I called. “Nothing else.”
“I need to get in there.” She nodded at the courthouse.
“Why?”
“Justice has to be served.”
“It will be. That’s what this place is for, to bring justice to people who have committed crimes.”
“Walter Riley has more than committed crimes. He’s abused, raped and degraded women whilst in a position of power and trust.”
“I agree, that does seem to be the case.” I held up my free hand. “I’m just going to take off my helmet, okay?”
“Why?”