Chapter 80

“Why don’t you clean up?” I said. “I need to finish moving out of the house and then return the car to the rental agency.” I set the food and other items I’d brought from the kitchen after cleaning out the fridge and cabinets at the house, along with some water and soda, on top of the chest of drawers.

“Are you sure you want me here, Bill?” Thorn’s voice was small and shaky. “I’ve ruined your life and you don’t even know me. I’m not worth all this.”

I kneeled on the carpet, taking his hands in mine. “I know enough, and yes, I want you here. You are worthy of everything in this world, and one day, I hope you believe that. I want to help you get back on your feet. You have a lot of potential, you know? To use your wits to survive on the streets takes courage and intelligence. How about we find a way for you to use those skills to keep a roof over your head without turning tricks?”

He wiped his nose with a grubby hand. “Okay.”