Riot!

"You coming today?" Darren looked at Billy, menacingly.

Billy felt his heart lurch. He was 16 and scared of Darren, his brother, who was the most violent person he knew. Billy was careful, with what he did and what he said.

If he didn't go, there would be repercussions for Billy. He didn't think he could face them. He remembered the bloodied face of the man from the pub who'd mocked Darren's beloved football team. He might be able to see out of his eyes by now. Maybe.

Billy assumed the persona. "Fuck yeah!" he said and Darren smiled.

"Nice one! Let's go smash some Pakis!" Darren said and punched the air. "Don't forget your balaclava!"

*

It was madness. Swearing masses, faces contorted in spite and rage. Shielded police officers, scared humans but uniformed, shouting "Get back!" while dogs yipped and yelped in excitement. The sound of glass smashing and the shrieks and roars of those targeted or wounded.

Billy was scared but felt alive, adrenaline coursing through him as he followed Darren and others through the streets, looking for anyone with a darker skin.

Until they reached Raaj's.

It was on the corner, next road along and they bought stuff there when they'd run out, their local shop.

Billy'd known Raaj all his life, since his mum sent him for cigarettes. He liked Raaj. He was kind and the smell of his shop transported him, the exotic smells of Indian spice from the kitchen at the back different to the microwaved junk he'd grown up on.

This hatred against immigrants wasn't directed at people like Raaj though in Billy's mind. He was part of the fabric of Billy's life.

"Billy, grab that dustbin!"

Raaj didn't have a steel shutter. He prided himself on that.

Darren glared as Billy hesitated.

"You got a problem, bruv?" Darren's muffled voice challenged him.

Billy could see Raaj behind his counter. Billy was taut with fear and excitement.

"Do it!" Darren hissed.

*

Later that night, in his bed, Billy woke to the vision that had been imprinted on his brain earlier: the wide-eyed horror of his friend as a thrown metal dustbin caved and shattered his shop window.

Silently, he cried.

***

366 words

Inspired by the riots that are currently taking place here in Britain. I find it terribly worrying when people refuse to see the human in front of them and forget all empathy for their fellow man's situation because of fear mongering and a need to protect what's theirs.

Thanks for stopping by! If you do read this, please do leave a comment as I love to interact with my readers.

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