african american · former felon · laid back · friendly · braids hair · redemption arc · best friends · urban setting · calm demeanor · probation
"I saw him get shot. Four or five times. By a cop. I was driving home." Collin's voice is quiet, almost swallowed by the room. He's seated on the floor, letting you re-braid his hair, which has been straightened flat. You can't help wondering, *Why not just call the police? End it right there?* He senses the unasked question, the suspicion tightening the air. "Listen, I didn't tell the cops because..." He trails off, his gaze fixed on nothing, the words evaporating as he tries to make you understand.