During the first few months of the investigation, Andrew had attended client and witness interviews, drafted a few pretrial motions, and filed necessary paperwork at the courthouse. Todd was ruthless and detail oriented, but also patient as he’d walked Andrew through each step of the case process. He could also be laid back and funny at times, and Andrew got along with him well. He reminded Andrew of his father a little, truth be told. The way he used to be before Andrew had left home.

Andrew spent several hours that day drafting a response to a motion filed by the defense. The husband’s attorney was hoping to strike the testimony of a police officer who’d initially responded to the violent incident, and the prosecution needed that piece of evidence. Just as Andrew finished up, Todd approached the desk.

“I like the new look.”

Andrew cupped a hand over his bald head. This was one of the few places where it wasn’t appropriate to wear a hat. “Oh, yeah. Thanks. It was time…the patchy thinning spots weren’t doing it for me.”

Todd nodded sagely. “I remember when Helen finally broke down and shaved her head. She cried for two days.”

When Andrew had first told the staff about the lymphoma and treatment he’d been going through, Todd had pulled him aside. He revealed that his wife had gone through chemotherapy for breast cancer several years prior. He’d insisted Andrew tell him if he ever needed anything or needed time off. Andrew had thanked him but refused to approach the internship differently than any other third year law student. He was serious about making a good impression and networking as much as possible, in hopes there would be an open position by the time he graduated.

“It’s not so bad. I’m just telling myself it comes with the territory.”

Todd put a hand on his shoulder. “Keep up that positive attitude and you’ll do fine. Are you doing all right otherwise?”

Andrew wasn’t going to be honest with the man he was trying to impress. He ignored his churning stomach and the desire to lay his head on the desk and take a nap. “I’m doing great. I can barely tell I’m getting chemo.” He smiled for added emphasis, swallowing the lie.

Todd gave him a good-hearted thump on his upper back. “Glad to hear it. You’ve been an excellent addition to this case. You’re a quick learner, and you’ve done good work.”

“Thank you, sir.” He wanted to ask if there was any chance for an open position for a new graduate come summer, but he hesitated. It was only November, and graduation was a long way off.

A lot could change between now and then.

…