CHAPTER 109: Threads of Courage

Emily

Notifying the coffee shop of my emergency, I informed them that I couldn't make it to The Grind. Immediately, I hurried to the hospital where my mom had been admitted.

It was there that I encountered Dr. Vanderbilt, my mother's surgeon. Despite his salt and pepper hair, his face defied his age, exuding a handsome charm.

"I apologize for reaching out to you so suddenly, Miss Carter," he began gently. "You are listed as the immediate contact for your mother after... your father passed away last month."

I sensed Dr. Vanderbilt struggling to maintain composure. My lips quivered.

"W-what's going on, doctor?"

He guided me to a quiet corner. "Your mother's condition is stable, but we've encountered a different issue. The monthly funds supporting her admission have ceased since last month. As of now, your family owes the hospital twenty thousand dollars."

Mixed emotions surged within me—fear, resentment, self-pity... This must be related to my dad's death. Erica must have stoppe