“It’s okay, buddy,” I told him. “Just answer her questions honestly.”
He nodded once and sat down.
Beverly leaned forward and asked him about school, food, and whether he felt safe with me.
Eli answered in a whisper that I could barely hear while his thumb rubbed the ribbon in tight circles.
When the aide took him back outside, the room felt heavier than before.
Beverly stood, thanked me with genuine kindness, and left.
Diane waited until the door clicked shut.
“Carter, there is something we need to discuss.”
“What is it?”
“The state’s attorney is going to ask you a personal question. He will ask about your background and why you are doing this.”
