My Apartment Burned Down. My Parents Said, “Not Our Problem.” Then the Fire Investigator Called.

rang.

Uncle Thomas was closest to the door. He opened it without thinking, still processing what was happening.

Marcus Webb stepped inside, badge visible on his belt. Two uniformed officers flanked him.

“Patricia Carter.”

My mother didn’t move. For the first time in my life, I saw her completely still—frozen, like an animal caught in headlights.

“I’m fire continue reading …