Ben’s locked backpack and confiscated phone at the cafe — Then the security camera footage reveals who actually started the fight
Chapter 1 — Ben trapped at work as Sarah storms in
Ben wiped down the sticky wooden table near the front window with a damp yellow rag.
The afternoon shift was dragging on.
He checked the heavy iron clock hanging above the pastry counter.
His aunt was supposed to pick him up ten minutes ago.
The front door chimed sharply.
A tall woman in a dark trench coat pushed her way inside.
It was Sarah.
She did not look like she was here to order coffee.
Her eyes scanned the room and locked immediately onto Ben.
“Ben,” Sarah called out, marching straight past the empty tables.
“What is going on here?”
Ben dropped the rag onto the table.
“My aunt is late,” Ben mumbled, wiping his hands on his apron.
“That’s not what I’m talking about,” Sarah said, pointing a finger toward the back of the dining room.
“Why is your backpack locked inside that glass display cabinet?”
Ben let out a heavy breath.
“Ask him,” Ben said, nodding toward the service counter.
Sarah turned on her heel and strode toward the main register.
Mark stepped out from the back office door, his arms crossed over his chest.
