Chapter 77: Your So-Called Self-Respect is Worthless

Whenever I hesitated, he always knew just what to say to make me give in. And he was right. I was already on the edge. Even though my dad was recovering, the surgery had taken a toll. He still needed medication and long-term care. The entire family depended on me. I had a younger brother, but he was useless. Forget covering any expenses. It was a blessing if he didn't beg our parents for money himself. Sometimes he even called them just to ask for cash. So it was all on me. When Dad was healthy, things were manageable. But now, it was like everything had crumbled at once. I was drowning. "If you can't afford it, then do what I say. That so-called self-respect of yours? It's worthless." Arthur's words cut right through me. It was like he had read my mind and struck before I could even make a decision. His attitude pissed me off, but the truth was, I had no better option. "Thanks," I said. Yeah, I knew what he was after. But still, he gave me a roof over my head. Without that apartment h