Chapter 9

I waved away his gratitude. “No need to thank me, Derrick. I’m glad to help.”

As for the war veteran, Joey had a fragile beauty. He was skinny and frail, his hair a dull black which hung in limp strands around his face. He was obviously having a hard time with things, and I hoped that Derrick would be able to get the rest of the money together soon to get his brother the help he desperately needed.

Derrick was very protective of Joey and would check on him every hour to make sure he was okay, in between preparing their new home for occupation. Joey obviously adored his big brother and worshipped the ground he walked on. I told them about the paths in the woods, and that they were safe. It was my hope that this change of scenery would be to their benefit and help keep Derrick on an even keel from now on.