Since Shelby is listening, I can’t tell him what really happened. I jerk my head to the door and tell him, meaningfully, “In the alley. He was waiting for me.”

I see the understanding dawn in Robert’s eyes, and he lets go of me. “You ladies stay here. I’ll go check it out.”

“He’s a lunatic with a gun!” Shelby yells at him, frustrated, as Robert walks out the door. “What is y’all’s deal with the cops?!”

Fortunately, Robert returns soon after, saving me from having to ...