The knock came before sunrise.
Emma opened the door to find two debt collectors in black jackets, holding folders with the logo of her parents' bank.
“Miss Harris?" the taller one asked.
“She's not here," Emma lied instinctively.
“She's listed as the primary emergency contact. Your father missed three payments. We're here to discuss liquidation options."
Emma's mouth went dry. “You can't just show up like this."
“Legal notice was sent last week," the other said. “We need a decision."
A cough sounded behind her.
Her mother stood barefoot in the hallway, gray cardigan slipping from her thin frame.
“Let them in, Emma," she said faintly. “Let's hear what they want."
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By noon, they had agreed to a short-term payment plan—one her father couldn't possibly afford on his pension. He w
