Seven Crumpled Dollar Bills on a Pine Table in Michigan

take money from our friends.”

“I saved them for a long time,” Tyler said, his voice quiet. “From my birthday allowance. I kept them under my mattress so he would not find them.”

“Well, they are yours again,” Mike said, tucking the drawing carefully into his vest pocket. “Keep them safe.”

The boy folded the seven bills, his fingers working them until they continue reading …