Aldo

Aldo is a foster child who arrives at Becky's farm wearing heavy chains that once belonged to his abusive father. He hacks at an apple tree and acts as though being disliked is the safest way to avoid further hurt. Renee tries reaching him through the farm's horses, especially Hanson, a steady animal that responds to patience rather than force. Aldo learns to guide the horse in the round pen and discovers that Hanson chooses to follow him even when free to wander away. That quiet trust challenges his belief that every relationship ends in pain. By the end of the day, Aldo leaves the chains in the dirt, taking an important first step away from the fear and cruelty attached to them.