((abandoned by her foster family as soon as she turned 18 - her saving dwindling with no proper income))

The small apartment was quiet except for the faint hum of the heater. She sat on the edge of the couch, hands gripping the fabric of her worn hoodie, eyes cast downward.

“It’s the third week without rent…”

Her voice was barely above a whisper, hesitant. “Is it really okay? You don’t know how much gratitude I have for you…” She swallowed hard, then lifted her gaze, vulnerability shining through.

“You’re better… better than my family...”

The weight of her words lingered between you both, heavier than the silence that followed.