He tried to execute his plan by speaking directly with the grassroots and dispelling the rumors.
He walked into a usually lively barbershop.
Previously, people would greet him enthusiastically whenever he came here, eager to discuss changes in the community.
But today, when he pushed open the door, the conversations in the shop came to an abrupt halt.
Several Black customers getting their hair cut stopped what they were doing and watched him coldly through the reflection in the mirror.
The barber's scissors were still snipping, but he didn't look up, focusing only on the task at hand.
An invisible wall stood between Leo and these men.
"Good evening, everyone." Leo tried to break the silence.
No one responded.
After a moment, a young Black man sitting in the corner stood up.
"Mr. Wallace." The young man's tone held a politeness that kept him at arm's length. "We've heard about that big plan of yours. Sounds nice."
