"Settle it yourself," Daisy snapped, storming out the door.
But Jasmine didn't let go. Still clinging to her daughter's hand, she stumbled forward, dragged a few steps as Daisy tried to break free.
"I'm sorry... but I know you have money now," Jasmine pleaded, her voice cracking.
"Just this once, please help me… it'll be the last time, I promise."
Daisy let out a sharp huff, head tilted back in pure disbelief.
She closed her eyes for a beat, breathing through the urge to commit something violent.
'Would smacking the back of your own mother's head be considered self-defense… or a crime of passion?'
She opened her eyes again, jaw clenched. "You've said 'last time' so many times, I've lost count."
"No! No!" Jasmine shook her head frantically, still pleading.
"I promise, this time… if you want me to sign an agreement or whatever, I'll do it. I just need enough to settle the loan… and a bit more to go back to my family…"
Daisy scoffed, loud and bitter.
