Jones,” Zoe Lapinski said as a dark-haired baby boy cried in her arms. Britt’s sister-in-law patted the child’s back and bounced him a little, quieting him. Two other little boys pushed toy dump trucks around the office. Tears brimmed in Zoe’s eyes. “I knew money was tight, but I had no idea about our debt. Justin promised things would work out, and I believed him. Now he’s gone, and I don’t know what to do.” “Call me Cleo.” I waited as she collected herself. Zoe’s troubled face reminded me of little Kylie and the uphill battle she faced in the world. Oddly, I wanted Rafe to be her dad so that the child would have adequate food and shelter. And love. Couldn’t forget that. “Your brother-in-law told me about your situation,” I said once it looked like she wouldn’t dissolve into a puddle. “I can file the paperwork for an extension. After that, we can open a negotiation with the Internal Revenue Service, but we need to understand your finances first.” Zoe wailed, setting off the baby, and bringing the little boys rushing to her side.
