“I don’t think he’d run over a four-year-old’s toy on purpose.”

Derek picked up a heavy steel wrench and held it tight.

“I think you’re making excuses for a man who doesn’t deserve a single one,” Derek said.

Michael looked at the bent metal basket on the front of the bike.

The blue paint caught the bright shop light again.

“Just tighten the chain for me,” Michael said.

At three thirty Michael was carrying four thick budget folders down the carpeted hall at Apex Logistics.

Carla fell in beside him near the doors to the copy room.