“I didn’t know people would care,” he whispered.
Judge Bennett looked at him.
“People care, son. Sometimes they simply need to be reminded.”
Chapter 4: More Than a Second Chance
By the time the contributions were counted, the courtroom had collected enough money to buy groceries, medicine, and other necessities for Adam and his mother.
Mr. Collins approached the judge.
His face had changed.
The irritation was gone, replaced by an expression Adam could not quite understand.
“Your Honor,” he said, “I’d like to say something.”
The judge nodded.
“Go ahead.”
Mr. Collins turned toward Adam.
“I work long hours to keep my store open. Sometimes I get so caught up worrying about losses that I forget there’s a person behind every problem.”
He paused.
“What you did was wrong, Adam.”
“I know, sir.”
“But I also know that if my own son were hungry, I’d want someone to help him.”
