n the doorway, her face softer than I've ever seen it. I shake m

features soften even further, but I can see the reg

this, but he has to-for all of us. We owe Isaac money, and we weren't paying up because we didn't have enough. He threatened to take all o

they just decide my future like it was nothing? My father-my protector-was supposed to shield me from things like this. But now, here I was,

on. Anger burns through me, but it's mixed with something else-hurt.

hout our house? Our money? Our cars? We'll be homeless! You'll be homeless! Think about that. It is your duty to thi

ble by my sides. How could she say that? How could she threaten me like that, knowing I had no power? No say? She was

gether, but my throat burns. It feels like a knot is tightening in my chest, suffocating me. I can

in my throat, and force the words out, my v

with pride. She steps forward, placing a hand on my shoulder. « You're doing the right thin

ing me in this situation. But I can't. What would be the point? I have no powe

our father anymore? » She

e, forcing the words out even though they taste like ash on my tongue. I'm angry. S

dia. You'll handle this better than any of us. You're saving the family. You're doing the r

I wipe my eyes with the back of my hand, trying to stop the tears

rving into a small smile. « Why

s, » I reply, my w

the weak. It's for the strong-for those who refuse to give up. Don't ever let anyone make

r touch is comforting, but it's not enough to calm the storm inside me.

her expression firming up. « Go talk to y

doom. The weight of what's happening presses down on me with every move, and the uncertain

bove the knob. I hesitate for a moment before knocking, the sou

, his voice a mix of

ough. When he sees me, his expression sof

elief, and I walk into his embrace, sinking i

as the tears I've been holding back finally spill over.

d. I yelled at you when it wasn't necessary. I should've been more understanding

yes filled with both pain and resolve. « I'l

licker of surprise crossi

e small but st

get through this... together, » he says softly, his vo

's the only thi