“Her mother was in an acc!dent. I need to take her home.”
Frank kept the doors closed.
Instead, he turned toward the passenger area.
“Ellie, do you recognize this gentleman?”
My daughter’s voice sounded from somewhere behind the driver.
“No, sir.”
Frank turned back toward the stranger.
“I’m unable to release her into your care.”
“Listen, I know her mother. I know she’s in Mrs. Benton’s third-grade classroom. I’m telling you there’s an emergency.”
Frank remained exactly where he was.
“Then the school can contact her family using the appropriate procedures.”
The stranger motioned impatiently toward the entrance.
“You’re making this more difficult than necessary.”
Frank responded without raising his voice.
“Sir, please step away from the bus.”
The individual looked at him silently.
Then he turned around and headed back toward his pickup.
Frank reached for his radio.
Mrs. Shaw paused the recording.
