A Pound of Flesh (A Pound of Flesh #1)(38)

“Yes, I do know this,” Diane answered. “How have the sessions been, Miss Lane?”

Peaches smiled. “They’ve been excellent. Carter’s worked well. He’s engaged and has many perceptive ideas about the topics we’ve discussed.”

Diane made a quick note. “I understand that Carter and you had a couple of, shall we say, run-ins when you first started.”

Peaches crossed her legs. “That’s correct.”

“But not anymore?”

“No. Carter and I have come to an understanding in terms of his conduct during the sessions. Carter’s attitude has been positive and cooperative. It’s clear that he wants to learn and do well.”

“That’s great, Carter,” Diane said with a nod.

“But?” he and Jack said in unison.

“But the board members aren’t stupid. They’re aware that your attending these sessions could be a way of simply scoring points with them.”

“With all due respect,” Jack interrupted, “isn’t that the point?”

“Yes, of course,” Diane concurred. “But Carter needs to show that he’s doing it because he wants to and views everything he learns as useful in the long term.” She turned to Carter. “That’s what parole is all about, Carter: the long term.” She fixed him with a sharp stare. “I have to be honest. Despite your eligibility date, the board may see your past conduct as your way of not observing the rules of this institution.”

Carter’s gaze flickered to Peaches, disappointment radiating through him.

“How long-term are we talking?” Carter’s lawyer asked as he scribbled on a yellow notepad. “How long will Carter’s parole be?”

Diane sat back. “As per his eligibility, if the hearing examiner grants his parole, that would mean he’s released fifteen months early.”

“So twelve months,” the lawyer finished for her.

“I would expect so. I would be surprised if they agreed to anything shorter. The first nine months would be monitored closely by myself, an assigned parole officer, and Jack, should he wish to continue with his meetings post-parole.”

“So, do we keep doing the tutoring sessions post-parole?” Peaches asked.

“That would definitely be something to consider,” Diane replied. “It would show the board Carter is dedicated and serious about his rehabilitation, but you need to discuss that among yourselves and decide before the hearing. Is there anything you would like to ask or add, Carter?”

Carter cleared his throat. “If, um, if I continue with the sessions when I’m released, we do those for how long? I mean, do we do them forever?”

[page]Diane shook her head. “At the end of your initial nine months of monitoring, you’ll meet again with the board and the situation will be reviewed. If Miss Lane does agree, then she will have to keep rigorous notes detailing what you’ve studied and what the outcomes are, as well as meet with the board to explain them.”


“That’s not a problem,” Peaches said firmly.

“I’m pleased to hear it.” Diane turned back to Carter. “But you know there will be other terms to meet, including regular drug testing and curfews.”

Yeah, parole was all fun and f*cking games.

*

Carter looked like he was ready to start smoking his coveralls when Kat walked in.

“Please, for the love of all that is holy, tell me you have some—”

“Cigarettes.” Kat smiled, holding up a pack of Marlboros. “Here ya go, Champ,” she said, tossing them to him.