Shane’s breath got caught in her throat.

“Shit, seriously? I—I don’t know what to say. When did this happen? What does it mean?”

“It means that the conversation about permanency could take a turn if he is convicted and you may be looked at as the next of kin who would be responsible for him. That doesn’t necessarily mean adoption right off the bat, but it could mean legal guardianship. If you are open to eventual adoption, that is certainly a step in the right direction.”

Shane nodded, trying to focus on what she was saying but being overwhelmed with all of the information.

“When did all of this happen? I mean was the person hurt? Does he have bail?”

“It happened Saturday night. I don’t know the details, all I know is that a judge is not going to reinstate parental rights to someone like that. As far as bail—no. It wasn’t granted to him on grounds that he is a flight risk. What that means is they don’t want him trying to come get Shay and then disappear.”

Shane nodded and inhaled deeply, trying to figure out what she needed to do next.

“So what do I do?”

“Get yourself a lawyer, I’ll give you a list of ones that I know are good. Secondly, you need to find Carla and see what she is up to and find out if she is willing to terminate her parental rights.”

Shane tried to manage a smile, but Julie could tell she was terrified.

The caseworker smiled back and reached in her desk. She pulled out some papers and handed them to Shane.

“Here is a list of some lawyers we’ve used before and some paperwork for you to fill out just saying you are open to being his legal guardian.”

“Thanks. Shit this is going to be expensive. It shouldn’t have to be this way just to adopt my own brother. The therapy bills are ridicules too—and that’s with the subsidy. I need to get another job or something.”

“You’re a hairdresser, right?”

“Yeah, why?”

“My brother owns a salon on Sunset  Strip. You should talk to him. He is looking for someone new and the pay and benefits are pretty good. I’ll mention you to him. Here is his card. Give him a call—seriously.”