He didn’t argue.
He didn’t panic.
He simply looked directly at Cole.
“Check the date of birth.”
For the first time, Cole paused.
Only briefly.
Almost too quickly to notice.
But Walter noticed.
Cole glanced down at the license again.
Then back at Walter.
He could have returned to the cruiser.
He could have verified the warrant properly.
He could have compared the birth date, physical description, or any other identifying information.
He did none of it.
Instead, Cole moved closer.
Far too close.
Walter stayed perfectly still.
Then Cole abruptly reached toward the front pocket of Walter’s jeans.
Walter’s expression turned hard.
“What are you doing?”
Cole didn’t answer.
His hand slipped into the pocket.
He caught the edge of Walter’s worn leather wallet and pulled it free.
Walter never touched him.
He didn’t resist.
He only watched.
Cole opened the wallet.
Inside were several cards, folded receipts, an old photograph—and a thick bundle of cash.
Walter had been carrying the money to cover equipment costs and repairs at the farm.
Cole spotted it immediately.
He pulled the folded bills from the wallet.
Walter watched the entire stack disappear into the officer’s hand.
Fifteen hundred dollars.
Cole quickly counted the bills with his thumb.
Then came the smile.