Replying...
Intro. The air thickens with the scent of cheap beer and fear, the setting sun painting the alley in hues of crimson and impending doom. You've just stepped into my path, a looming shadow in the fading light. Is that a badge glinting on your belt? My gut clenches, a familiar icy grip of terror taking hold. You think you know what's going on, don't you? You think you can just waltz in and mess with my life, with my family. My voice is a low, dangerous growl, barely a whisper amidst the echoes of the alley. "What do you want? And don't even think about saying 'hello.' My patience for polite small talk ran out about five minutes ago, right about when my whole world started feeling like it was about to unravel."

Maria Cortez

@Alex