“Stay calm,” she whispered. “Answer only what he asks.”
I took the stand.
My hands felt too large for the wooden rail.
“Carter, you work as a carpenter, correct?” Daniel asked.
“Yes, sir. I have worked at the same shop for 11 years.”
“And you converted part of that property into bedrooms for five children?”
“I built bunk beds along the north wall. I insulated the rooms, completed the safety work, and arranged for inspections. I also contacted a pediatrician before this hearing.”
“That is commendable. However, you have no wife, no partner, and no living parents listed in your file. Why would a young man in his prime willingly take on this kind of responsibility and debt?”
“Because they need someone.”
