A week before my release, I hadn’t yet been freed when I checked my messages. It was from my college friend Jack, who said, “Avery, I hope you see this message when you open WhatsAPP. Contact me ASAP!”

“Avery, they say you intentionally hurt someone. I don’t believe it!”

“Avery, are you okay?”

I thought for a moment and replied, “I’m out now and doing fine.”

The charge against me was intentional harm. Since the person didn’t die, I was only sentenced to three years. Why didn’t he speak up for me, knowing I was wronged?

I pondered this question for three years in prison.

Jack’s reply came quickly: “Where...