A Stranger Left an Envelope Beside My Bed on My Sixty-Second Birthday—Then I Found His Photograph with My Son

I described the key.

I watched him most carefully when I said Daniel’s name.

He didn’t ask what Daniel looked like.

He asked whether I was sure I hadn’t put the money somewhere else.

“You’ve been forgetful lately, Mom.

You left your car window down in the rain last month.”

“The window regulator was broken.

You helped me tape it shut.”