The next day, Christine made nearly a hundred calls, almost wearing out her contact list.
Her social circle had always been simple - mostly well-educated, middle-class women like herself. Most worked in universities either teaching or doing research, or were like Rachel, doctors dedicated to saving lives on the frontline. Her husband Ethan's connections were mainly other pharmaceutical researchers who spent their days in labs, plus some friends from photography and art circles.
Asking these friends to help get someone out of drug trafficking charges? It was impossible. Even trying to get connections to the Drug Enforcement Agency through them seemed like a pipe dream.
Almost everyone gave her the same answer: "I'm so sorry, but I can't help."
Deep down, Christine knew. Drug possession was such a serious charge that she should be grateful her friends hadn't cut ties completely, let alone expect their help.
