“We have a warrant for your arrest issued by the state attorney’s office, as well as a domestic complaint.”

“This is a mistake,” Derek said, his voice rising in pitch.

He turned his head and saw me standing under the oak tree.

Even from fifty feet away, I could feel the venom in his glare.

“Monica!” he shouted, taking a step toward me.

“Stay where you are, sir,” the officer said, stepping between Derek and the lawn.

“She did this,” Derek yelled, pointing a finger at me. “She’s a liar! She’s trying to ruin my family!”

The second officer moved quickly, grabbing Derek’s arm and pulling it behind his back.

“Do not resist, Mr. Sterling,” the officer said.

Derek struggled for a second, his shoulders twisting as he tried to pull away.

“Get your hands off me!” he shouted. “Do you know who my father is? Do you know who I am?”

“I know exactly who you are,” the officer said, clicking the metal handcuffs into place around Derek’s wrists.

The sound of the ratchets was sharp and clear in the winter night.