He loved reading.
He especially enjoyed history and literature.
When the judge asked what subject interested him most, Adam hesitated.
“Sometimes I like reading about laws.”
“Why?”
“Because I want to understand why things happen the way they do.”
Judge Bennett smiled faintly.
“That’s a good reason.”
He took a piece of paper and wrote down the name of a local youth employment program.
“They sometimes have positions that allow students to work a few hours after school. I can’t promise anything, but Ms. Carter can help you apply.”
Adam held the paper as though it were something precious.
The judge continued.
“Your education must remain important. You should not have to abandon school to keep your family alive.”
For the first time in months, Adam felt something unfamiliar.
Hope.
Not the kind that came from pretending everything would be fine.
The kind that came from knowing there were people willing to help him take the next step.
