Robert Drusetta

Beyond The Seventh Tree Robert Drusetta

Middle-aged widower Mariusz Kopa gazes down on his funeral, reflecting on the dramatic events that led to his premature death.
Mariusz's lonely and directionless life became purposeful when schoolgirl Charlotte began sitting next to him regularly on her daily bus trip to school two years ago.
Then one morning, after alighting the bus, Mariusz witnesses a pedophile assault Charlotte, loses control and nearly beats him to death. Arrested, then thrown in a mental institution, Mariusz withdraws from the social media and judicial circus, blaming himself for not protecting Charlotte. His new purpose: do what it takes to help Charlotte recover.

This story is dedicated to all those who have felt lonely, left out, ostracised or suffered any form of prejudice at some point in their life. May you find peace and happiness.