Long Ride (Riding with Honor) by Rebecca Avery Read Free Book Online

they were married and could show that they have a suitable environment and can financially take on another child.  It is very early in the pregnancy so there is time to determine the best course of action.  I just wanted to let your client know so he and Ms. Atkinson can… prepare… if they are in fact interested ,” Carmen said.
    “I will talk it over with my client and Ms. Atkinson and let you know ,” she said.
    “There is just one other thing…” Carmen said , looking at her hesitantly. “Are you residing in Florida now?”
    “Actually I am only back down here for a short while… on vacation ,” she replied.
    “Oh… I was just wondering if you would be interested in taking on a pro bono case as a children’s advocate…” Carmen said.
    She was a criminal attorney… what did she know about representing children’s best interests?  Additionally, she hopefully wouldn’t be in this state long enough to handle anymore legal cases.  What would make Carmen even ask?
    “Well, considering it is unlikely I will be down here that long, I can’t help but I am curious why you would even ask,” she said.
    “Look Ms. Waters…” Carmen started.
    “Call me Becca,” she interrupted.
    “Becca, I am not going to sit here and bullshit you.  The department is aware that you are representing a Charles Reynolds in a potential case against the state and this department.  Your legal team has been all over it and we received your letter by fax just this morning.  Not many attorneys, especially one such as you, are willing to go head to head with such a large government entity.  I figure if you are willing to do so for a man who is no longer a ward of the state, perhaps you would be interested in taking other similar cases…” Carmen said.
    “Such as me?” she asked, already feeling offended and angry.
    “You are one of the most revered defense attorneys in the country… you can essentially name your price.  You have no need to take on the big dogs… you already have and won a time or two and have nothing to prove, especially free of charge.  That is all I meant,” Carmen explained.
    “If you expect me to discuss why I chose to represent Mr. Reynolds or the merits of his case you will be sorely disappointed and I must say that to even ask is unethical and smacks of fear,” Becca said angrily.
    “ The only thing I will tell you is that your department should fear this case as it stands to set a precedent whereby former wards of the state can hold the state liable for all manner of harm.  This department… this agency… is funded by the citizens of this state, who expect it to be run efficiently and effectively.  Mistakes by your department don’t just cost taxpayers money, it sometimes costs those entrusted to your care their very lives!”  she replied before forcing herself to shut up.
    “That…” Carmen said pointing at her . “That right there is why I would like you to consider taking this advocacy case.  There are so many kids in the system that cases become words on a document rather than a real person, a real child in need of help.  Those kids need a voice and I invite you to consider being that voice.  You would essentially be doing what you are doing for Mr. Reynolds and for Gretchen and Melody’s newest sibling,” Carmen said. “Just with little to no pay.”
    Was Carmen trying to soften her up by coming off as needing her help?  DCF had another think coming if they thought she would allow her heart to overrule her head.  Her first responsibility was to her clients… Chuck and Tommy. 
    Taking on new clients would essentially pit her against the department.  If the department did fear facing her in court, then why would Carmen offer her more opportunity… more ammunition… by suggesting she take on other clients… other kids?
    “Are you eager to take me on in court, Mrs. James?” she asked. “Is that it?”
    “If you are asking if I’m eager for my caseload of