Chapter 12

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Sarah knew that Ryan had to make the decision to seek help on his own, noone could make it for him. This was frustrating, she knew how difficult it could be first-hand. But at least Ryan had options, certainly more than Sarah had back in the day. Fortunately Ryan came to Sarah's motel room this night. It was a warm night, yet Ryan had both a long-sleeve shirt and sunglasses, Sarah had a good idea what this meant.

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Ryan: Can I stay, just for a night or two?

Sarah: Yeah, however long you need. Kristen asks you keep it clean, she's willing to make breakfast and dinner.

Ryan: She's really letting you stay here for free?

Sarah: Yeah, she feels I saved her daughter's life.

Ryan: Did you?

Sarah: Sort of. You know about the Ravenwood kids for cash scandal?

Ryan: Yeah, sending children to for profit prisons for incredibly minor offenses.

Sarah: Among those sent were Kristen's daughter Lily. Lily was autistic, she had trouble keeping still in a public school classroom. When she acted up the teachers called the cops and this corrupt judge ended up sending a nine year old girl to Ravenwood Juvenile Detention Facility. I looked out for her in there, we even plotted to escape. Lily made it out, I didn't. Kristen feels a little bad about leaving me behind, but Lily wouldn't have survived in there, I get it.

Ryan: Wow. Mind if I ask why you were in juvenile hall?

Sarah: Let's just say something more serious than acting up in class.