Chapter Eight
Inspection
“Sydney, how’s your pet project coming?” Tuck meets her in the hallway of the Detention Center with an affable grin for his casual inquiry.
“I’m still making my decision.”
His big face twists in consternation. “You gotta let go of her, Syd. One way or another. We have others coming through the system that’ll need her bed, and your attention. I’ll give you a week.”
“You said I had all the time I needed.”
“I thought you’d be done with her in a few days, once you got used to the idea. It’s been . . . what?”
“I don’t know how long it’s been. And I don’t care. I won’t be rushed.”
“Okay, so, what’s the big hang-up?”
“I need to understand what kind of life I’d be condemning her to,” Sydney answers pointedly, trying to remain calm.
“Condemning? You need a more o
