章 19: Chapter 19

“Yeah.” Justin shrugged. “I’ve got a couple of uncles and an aunt doing time. My mom’s cousin lives over on the other side of town, but I don’t want anything to do with her and the feeling’s mutual, you know? The kids are better off not knowing the family anyway. And my Aunt Jody lives in Halee Street in one of those nice new places, but she’s got a husband and a couple of kids and a job at the bank. Last time I saw her was a few years back when she walked past me on the street and pretended not to see me.” He shrugged again and swallowed down the lump in his throat. “Whole town knows we’re trash.”

Del’s gaze was dark. “That’s bullshit,” he said, his voice low. “Anyone can see you’re trying your hardest for these kids, Justin.”

Justin shook his head, his eyes stinging.