Two Black SUVs Rolled Into My Aunt’s Backyard

I was watching Ethan.

Rapid breathing.

Tense shoulders.

Eyes searching the adults for help.

I’d seen that expression before.

Far away from backyard barbecues.

It always meant the same thing.

Someone no longer felt safe.

I quietly set my drink on the picnic table and walked across the lawn.

“Tyler.”

He barely looked at me.

“We’re fine.”

“Ethan asked you to stop.continue reading …