“Mommy said when she had me you were in a bad place and weren’t ready to be my dad.” Thayer looks up at me briefly and back to her. “That’s right. You know about your brother?” When she nods, he goes on. “I was in a bad place after he died. It’s not easy for parents to lose their child.” She reaches out, placing her small hand gently on his cheek. “It’s okay. I’ll help you.” He smiles, putting his hand over top of hers. His big hand completely swallows the small one beneath it. “I’m sure you will.”
