Wesley didn't get to where he was by being an idiot. He'd been careful the moment they left the road. The moment the constable before him paused, he'd pulled out his baton and brought up his arm. The hit struck his forearm which still smarted. He backed up and laughed weakly.

"Didn't think these country boys could pack such a punch. If this is how you always react to disagreements, I'd almost think we could get along. But you have to stop this fighting right now. I'm bigger than you. Not physically but professionally. If you have an issue, be a man and speak to me directly. I have little respect for people who tell on others behind their backs. Unless it's to help solve a crime of course. "

He kept the armed ... arm up between them defensively.