Finn mutters under his breath.
Mayor Hartwell looks uncomfortable. “That would significantly impact revenue.”
Benjamin nods. “If the establishment is as stable as Mr. Hayes suggests, a short probationary period should not threaten its survival.”
Judge McDowell folds her hands. “Mr. Hayes. Can your business withstand these measures?”
“Yes,” I say calmly. “But I would ask why standards are being rewritten for one establishment without evidence of current wrongdoing.”
Benjamin tilts his head slightly.
“This isn’t punishment,” he says. “It’s a precaution.”
“Precaution against what?” I repeat.
“Against the possibility that past affiliations may resurface in ways that compromise this town.”
He’s not trying to shoot me. He’s trying to starve me, and he’s doing it with paperwork.
I fold my hands behind my back to keep them still.
“You’re asking this council,” I say evenly, “to impose restrictions based on hypothetical behavior.”
“I’m asking this council,” Benjamin replies smoothly, “to protect Coyote Glen before it needs protecting.”
Judge McDowell finally looks at me over the rim of her glasses. “Mr. Hayes. I think we need to hear from you.”
I stand.
The gym floor creaks under my boots as I step into the aisle and move toward the podium, every eye in the room tracking the distance.
“Judge.”
“Is there truth to the prior affiliation referenced this evening?”
“Yes,” I say evenly. “I was affiliated with a motorcycle club.”
A ripple of sound moves through the chairs behind me.
“Were there investigations connected to that organization?” she presses.
“Yes.”
“Were you personally charged with any crime related to those investigations?”
“No.”
Benjamin watches my face the way men watch a fuse burn toward powder.
“Perception matters in a town like ours,” Judge McDowell says.
“I understand that,” I reply. “I also understand that The Hollow has passed every inspection since it opened. We comply with local ordinance. We employ local residents. We sponsor town events.”
Benjamin tilts his head slightly. “Past behavior informs future risk assessment.”
I look at him fully then. “Does it? Or does it inform fear?”
A few heads turn.
