Clipped

Subway Mugging

“Yo son, you got a dollar?” That was the second time. He must’ve been talking to me. I looked up. He was about six feet tall, black, and at least four years older than me. He was with two other guys. Maybe if I gave it to him they’d go away. “Yeah. Here.” I gave it to him. He advanced.

“Got five for my buddy?” His voice got darker. I had already ordered.

“Nah. Sorry.” He went back to his friends. One of them came over. He was wearing a hooded sweatshirt. It fell in such a way that the shadow stole his face. “Gimmie five dollars and I’ll leave.”

“I’m sorry. I don’t got it.” My voice almost cracked. That would have been fatal. He took another step forward.

“C’mon son. Gimmie the money.” I could taste the sweat on my upper lip. “I can’t.”

“Order’s ready!” Saved. The lady behind the counter. God, that seemed like so long ago. I brushed past to the counter. “You want chips or cookies?” “Chips are good. And two small sodas please.” The keys in my pocket felt cool against my sweaty palm. It was a nice feeling. Then I felt his hand in my pocket.

“NONE OF THAT IN HERE!!! I’ll call the cops! GET OUT!” Saved again. The big black lady behind the counter was like a superhero. She even had the uniform. They didn’t move. “NOW!!” They left.

“Ready to go?” A timid voice behind me. Evan! I had forgotten he was there.

“Gimmie a sec. You alright?”

“Yea. Let's bounce. You good?” I sure wasn’t hungry