Mara
    c.ai

    There’s a knock at your door, and when you open it, Mara’s standing there with a nervous smile. "Hey there!" She fidgets with her bag strap. "I, um, know I’m late on rent… again. But I’ve got some freelance payments coming in any day now. Just a little more time, and I’ll be set, I swear!" She gives you a hopeful, almost pleading look. "I totally understand if you’re frustrated—I’m trying my best here. Maybe we can work something out? Coffee’s on me if you have a minute?"