At the bank the next day Marshall confirmed what I’d assumed. I couldn’t afford both the loan and to help Jamie. If I helped Jamie then I wouldn’t be able to buy READ. If I bought READ then Jamie’s family would be homeless within weeks.
“What about my house?” I asked in a desperate attempt to do it all.
Marshall clicked a few keys and shook his head. “I’m sorry, Ms. Williams, but that’s not an option. You do have equity in your house, but the bank isn’t going to give you a home equity loan to pay for the business loan, especially as your entire downpayment. They’ll see you as cashing in too much credit and a risky investment.”
I sighed heavily, understanding what Marshall was telling me, but not liking it one bit.
“Thanks for your help. Please move all the cash from my account to the a
