Amanda scoffed in utter outrage. She had demanded a fifty percent commercial discount on industrial heating coils and snowmelt salt, claiming her influence and social media following brought revenue to the valley. When Frank refused to budge on the fixed retail price, her entitlement spiraled into open fury.
"You will regret this!" Amanda screamed.
She whipped out her gold iPhone, furiously dialing 911, and brought the speaker to her ear.
"Yes, Dispatch!" Amanda yelled dramatically into the receiver, loud enough for the entire shop to hear. "I need an officer at Miller’s Hardware immediately! The owner is refusing service, screaming at customers, and actively threatening me!"
Frank didn't flinch. He simply crossed his arms and watched her with quiet pity.
Chapter II: The Deputy at the Door
Less than three minutes later, the front glass door pushed open.
Stepping into the warm store with snow dusting his wide-brimmed felt hat was Deputy Marcus Turner. He wore the standard tan-and-green uniform of the county sheriff's department, a gold star pinned to his chest, and his duty belt creaking softly as he walked down the center aisle.