Chapter 13 - DAVID FALLS APART
David’s case moved separately.
Assault on a child.
Unlawful restraint allegations considered but complicated because Eli was not physically tied or locked.
Interference with evidence investigation.
David claimed:
he only wanted the phrase,
never planned confinement,
lost his temper twice,
Eli escaped before anyone restrained him.
He apologized.
Badly.
“He pushed every button.”
That ruined it.
Then better:
“No. I hit a kid because I was terrified.”
What terrified him?
Losing money.
Losing father’s approval.
Losing the family story in which David was not the weak son.
He entered a plea agreement on assault-related charges with probation, mandatory treatment, and no contact with Eli.
No fantasy prison term.
North Bridge entered civil settlement negotiations.
David sold the boat.
The restaurant investment was written off.
His house refinance failed.
Consequences.
Not theatrical ruin.
Then one final email surfaced from Sarah:
DAVID:
You think you’re better than us because you married in.
SARAH:
May you like
No. I think rules should still apply when the last name is Carter.
That became the line Mark remembered most.
