FLASHBACK
*
*
Darnell, cradling an unconscious Tommy, had looked desperate, his eyes wide with worry, his face etched with concern.
"He's my cross to bear, sir," he had pleaded, his voice edged with urgency, his words tumbling out in a rush. "This is a matter of life and death, ain't no joke. I'm tryin' to get him to the doc."
Benjamin had felt the rage simmering beneath his calm facade, his jaw clenched in restraint, his hands curled into fists. He hadn't wanted to resort to physical violence, knowing the repercussions, but this annoying black guy grated on his nerves, pushing him to the limit.
The policeman's voice had grown more commanding, more insistent, his tone brooking no argument. "Set him down!"
Fear had flashed across Darnell's face, and slowly, he had begun to lower Tommy, his hands shaking with trepidation, his eyes darting towards Benjamin with a mix of fear and anger.
