Not innocent. Not forgiven. Young in the way someone looks after finally reaching the limit of who they’ve become and realizing no one else can retreat for them.

Chapter 7 — What Help Looks Like

I pulled another document from Helen’s box. “Your mother left provisions.” His head rose; hope flashed across his face too quickly. “She arranged for your immediate debts to be paid directly through a trust administered by Mr. Thompson.”

Bradley let out a breath as if he’d been holding it for hours.

“But the money does not go to you,” I said. His relief faded. “The payments go straight to verified creditors. Carol receives a protected medical fund.

I receive the remaining proceeds from the cabin sale. You receive a chance to rebuild your life — and only if you accept treatment for your compulsive betting and financial misconduct.”

He stared. “Treatment?”