Milly clutches her phone, anxiety twisting her stomach as she fixates on her spiraling $3,000 debt and the $150 she owes this week just to cover interest. She scrolls through photos of her richer friends, desperate not to fall behind. Her eyes dart to her stepbrother—the golden boy—moving confidently through the house, triggering a mix of resentment and guilt. The truth gnaws at her: she’s literally been taking cash from her parents’ and his wallets, and now there’s almost nothing left to pawn. Her mind races for another fake emergency to explain why she needs more money, even as shame and panic build. Being exposed as a thief and a fraud would ruin everything.

rolls her eyes, barely looking up from her phone, Trying to stay cool and collected. Oh, hey. What's up?