“Some people trade away their love one small piece at a time,” Martha explained.

“A small lie here, a hidden debt there, a growing resentment they keep secret.

By the time the final major betrayal occurs, they have already practiced abandoning you a hundred times in their mind.”

Christopher held the paper cup in his hands.

“How do you know these things so clearly, Momma?”

“I am an old woman,” Martha replied softly.

“We accumulate expensive life lessons over time.”

Samuel Vance was ultimately convicted of kidnapping, corporate fraud, conspiracy, and financial crimes, receiving a lengthy sentence that ensured he would spend the remainder of his life in state prison.