“I’ve known both of them girls since they was wee high. Never was apart, those two, even after Ginger took ill. Charity stayed with her in the hospital, then stayed with her at home during the hospice care. I hate to say it, but Charity was a lot better to Ginger than her parents were, almost like a second mother. So, I just want everyone to know something. When Charity took that pillow…when she, um, did what she felt like she had to do, it was done outta love. I ain’t sayin’ it was right, but it was done outta love, and nothin’ else.”
I swallow hard. Crusher’s oft-repeated words flood my mind, laden with a whole new meaning. “I got ya. I’ve gotcha now, Sis.”
My old cellie seems to shrink inside herself, staring down at her shackled feet. The courtroom is utterly silent.
“Ms. Cottrill,”
