Ava
My mom's eyes were wide with worry as she held up her phone, showing me the screen. "Someone just sent this to my email," she said, her voice trembling. "It says I've been allowed to retire from the government housing department."
I felt a surge of confusion. "What? Isn't that supposed to be a dream come true?"
Her expression turned accusatory. "It's a nightmare, Ava! That's what's so shocking. I had no idea, no warning, no discussion. It just came out of the blue. I heard it's all thanks to you and—"
I could see the panic rising in her and quickly cut in. "Mom, please calm down," I whispered, trying to soothe her.
But she wouldn't be calmed. "Don't tell me to calm down!" she snapped, her voice rising. "You and your husband, you're behind this, aren't you? You're the reason I've b
