Fear

This is a simple story about two people.  Nothing notable happens.  It's the subtext that's interesting.  First from his point of view.  

He is a young, black male.  He knows he has to be careful in this world.  He's often seen as a threat and misunderstandings can have dire consequences.  "Always strive", his mamma told him.  "People expect you to be dumb, to be violent, to be lazy."  It's always hanging over his head.    Walking along he sees a middle-aged, white woman.  Those were the worst, always expecting to be attacked somehow.  He's surprised she's even out.  It's getting dark.  She spots him, and he immediately apologizes.  "I didn't mean to scare ya!"  Friendly to the point of pandering.  It always disarms.  Sure enough, it works.  She smiles and notes they're dressed the same.  Why is she noting his appearance?  In case the cops ask later?  He hurries along and leaves her behind, but it stays in his thoughts and he resents it.  

She is a middle aged white woman walking in her neighborhood.  She hates to think it's dangerous, but a woman was attacked nearby about a month ago.  One should feel free but, it's smart to stay aware of your surroundings.  She is after all of the (physically) weaker sex, and has often felt targeted.  In life men have often tried to intimidate her and she has had to learn to be confident, otherwise she'd have to hide herself away.  Who wants to live like that?  She glances behind her, remembering to stay aware.  A young, black man says "sorry to scare ya!"  He seems nice enough, though you never know.  She tries to sound friendly in return.  God forbid he thinks she's racist.  The only thing she can think to say is to comment on their similar attire.  Continuing her walk she wonders why she cares.  It's better to look like an asshole than a victim.