Burden of Truth
by Amy L. Hull
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drabble, exactly 100 words
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Russ hadn't moved in a long time, but the motions came back easily.
Clothes stuffed in a duffle, mementos left on a shelf.
Over her science book, Tempe glared at him.
He hadn't remembered for years, but in his gut, he knew.
It was Ruth and Max Keenan who'd left them. And he couldn't tell her that.
A faceless woman said foster care would be best for her. He had no job, no money, no clue.
Tossing his bag in the car, he didn't look in the mirror.
Tempe calling his name, voice wavering and desperate, haunted him for years.
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