“What about the loan?” Logan asked.
“The one hundred eighty-six thousand four hundred is still due.”
Chelsea’s fingers tightened in her lap.
“Even after he gave all that money away?”
“Those are separate matters.”
“We can’t pay it all at once,” Chelsea said.
“Albert knows that. He’s willing to restructure the note over five years at a reduced rate. The payments aren’t optional. But they’re manageable.”
“And the business line?” Logan asked.
“The bank agreed to give you sixty days instead of thirty.”
“We might have to sell the house.”
Fiona didn’t blink.
“Then you might have to sell the house.”
The calmness of it made the decision feel real. Not cruel. Not the end of the world. Just real.
“Your father doesn’t want you homeless,” Fiona said. “He also doesn’t want to stay tied to a life you can’t afford.”
The conference room door opened.
I walked in.
I was wearing my gray jacket and a clean blue shirt and the same old brown leather shoes I’ve owned for twelve years.
My son stood up. So did Chelsea.
For a moment, nobody said anything.
Then Chelsea spoke.
“Mr. Higgins—”
“Albert,” I said.
She nodded. “Albert.”
I waited.
“I’m sorry,” she said.
Her voice trembled. But she didn’t look away from me.
“I’m sorry I made you feel unwelcome in your own home. I’m sorry I treated your help like something I was owed. And I’m sorry I used being busy and embarrassed as excuses not to see what I was doing.”
I didn’t say anything.
“I don’t expect you to forgive me today,” she said. “I just wanted you to hear me say it. Without asking you for anything.”
Something in my chest moved.
“That matters,” I said.
Her eyes filled up.
“I was afraid you’d think I was only sorry because the money’s gone.”
“I did wonder.”
“I understand.”
“But I don’t think that now,” I said.
She lowered her head. Relieved and ashamed at the same time.
I turned to Logan.
Sophia Rivers is an experienced News Content Editor with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for delivering accurate and engaging news stories. At TheArchivists, she specializes in curating, editing, and presenting news content that informs and resonates with a global audience.
Sophia holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Toronto, where she developed her skills in news reporting, media ethics, and digital journalism. Her expertise lies in identifying key stories, crafting compelling narratives, and ensuring journalistic integrity in every piece she edits.
Known for her precision and dedication to the truth, Sophia thrives in the fast-paced world of news editing. At TheArchivists, she focuses on producing high-quality news content that keeps readers informed while maintaining a balanced and insightful perspective.
With a commitment to delivering impactful journalism, Sophia is passionate about bringing clarity to complex issues and amplifying voices that matter. Her work reflects her belief in the power of news to shape conversations and inspire change.