Stopped

 There was fear at one time that a series of murders involving a certain sexual demographic was starting in the city.  Stabbing/choking seemed to be the method.

One night a young man was hitching home.  He'd had a long day and was looking forward to getting home.

A car stopped and he got in.

A young man was driving and the hitcher explained he was heading home.

The driver was quiet, sparse of words, and nodded.  

The hitcher was naturally cautious, knowing many cops and cognizant that the fears were well founded.

There was a smattering of small talk, though the atmosphere was mildly tense.  So, the hitcher kept an eye on the driver, while maintaining a seemingly casual air.  

The chat eventually fell to the current fear.  Then the vibes became taut.  The driver was visibly tense.

The hitcher made a point that he was straight, but did not ask the driver re his behavior.

The conversation became lengthy and they drove crosstown.

Eventually the driver parked in a then outskirt area, but still by the street.  

Hitcher could see driver was struggling talking about said behavior.  He seemed to be at odds what to do/how to act as well.

Somehow hitcher got through and suggested there were people who listened and the killer needed to stop.  He was fearless and kept his eyes on the driver.

Driver took him closer to hitcher's place, but hitcher made sure not to the door.

Soon after, the danger seemed over.  There were no more deaths or threats.

It was a mystery and one as to what had been said that one night.

Don't fear but face potential danger with eyes open and readiness.

The goal, if any, would be the moment.  

And so forth.