“Five years ago, yes. Since then, Walter’s pension has made monthly deposits.”
I sank into the chair.
“Why?”
“That’s not mine.”
Mr. Cooper pointed to the memo line. “Every deposit says the same thing.”
I read it twice.
“For Sylvie’s due.”
My throat closed.
“Open the envelope,” Mr. Cooper said gently.
I tore it with my thumb.
Inside was one page.
“Open the envelope.”
“Sylvie,
If you’re reading this, you finally used the card.
I told you it had two thousand dollars because I knew that was the only amount you might believe. It was a coward’s number.
Enough to make me feel decent while I walked out, but not enough to make you feel cared for.
