The Cost of Connection
“A church group that knows your inmate ID number?” Carmen’s voice was sharp. “Marcus, listen to me. Do not use that money. Do not buy snacks from the canteen. Do not accept anything from anyone.”
“Just one more time? Can you put fifty on the advance pay so I can call you next week? I got no other way.”
Smooth smiled, a thin, reptilian expression. “I heard about that. Blessings come in strange ways, my man.” He leaned in. “Hey, since you got that advance pay, you mind if I use your PIN to call my lawyer? My own family’s broke this week. Just a five-minute call. I’ll square it with you next commissary.”
The Cost of Connection
“A church group that knows your inmate ID number?” Carmen’s voice was sharp. “Marcus, listen to me. Do not use that money. Do not buy snacks from the canteen. Do not accept anything from anyone.”
“Just one more time? Can you put fifty on the advance pay so I can call you next week? I got no other way.”
Smooth smiled, a thin, reptilian expression. “I heard about that. Blessings come in strange ways, my man.” He leaned in. “Hey, since you got that advance pay, you mind if I use your PIN to call my lawyer? My own family’s broke this week. Just a five-minute call. I’ll square it with you next commissary.”