“We need Thomas Bellamy standing up in that courtroom reading Walter’s paper,” she said.

Her voice was simple, warm, and steady.

“Take the book, honey.”

I looked down at the vinyl cover and felt the hard, stubborn edge of my pride crack apart.

“I’ll pay back every penny the minute the judge upholds the will,” I said.

“I’m not worried about the pennies,” Helen said.

“I’m worried about that little boy asleep in the other room.”

I unzipped my purse and opened my leather wallet to tuck the rent receipt and the cashier’s check stub into the inner slot.