Outside, through the diner’s window, a faint flash of red and blue appeared in the distance. Relief washed over him, but he kept his expression calm.

Then the sound of sirens drew closer. The man turned, startled.

Mark stood slowly, his voice firm but steady. “Take it easy, sir. Let’s just talk.”

The door opened, and two officers entered. One of them greeted Mark with a nod — they’d understood his call for help.

The man froze, confusion written all over his face. “What’s going on?”

Mark glanced down at the girl, who now clung to her backpack, eyes full of tears. “It’s alright, sweetheart,” he said softly. “You did the right thing.”