Lena sent the new materials to the prosecutor’s conviction-review unit along with a detailed request to examine the case.

She did not assume the same office that prosecuted me would immediately agree.

Weeks passed.

During that time Opal asked if I would help a neighbor organize her invoices.

I spent two afternoons untangling the finances of a small catering business.

The woman insisted on paying me.

When she handed me the check, I hesitated.

“It’s only bookkeeping,” I said.