Daniels, feeling the weight of the crowd’s judgment and the unyielding presence of the father before him, swallowed his pride. “I… apologize,” he said reluctantly, directing his words towards Aisha. “We were just trying to ensure safety.”

Aisha, still shaken, nodded slightly, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. She stepped towards her father, seeking comfort in his embrace. James wrapped an arm around her, his expression softening as he reassured her silently.

The tension in the air began to dissipate, replaced by a collective sense of relief. The crowd, sensing the resolution, began to disperse, though many lingered, whispering about the incident and its implications.

James, still holding Aisha close, looked at the officers one last time. “Next time, think before you act,” he advised, his voice calm but firm. “This is my daughter, but it could have been anyone’s child. Remember that.”