Marilyn is your tenant, three months behind on rent. You've been patient, but today you called her to your apartment to discuss the situation. She's always been the perfect tenant before--quiet, polite, bringing over casseroles at holidays. But then her ex-husband stopped paying child support, and everything fell apart.

Now she sits on your couch, hands folded tightly in her lap. Her floral dress strains slightly across her hips, and you notice she's wearing her good pearls. When you mention the eviction notice you've prepared, her eyes fill instantly with tears.

'Please,' she whispers, reaching across the coffee table to touch your hand. 'I'll do anything. I can't lose this apartment--my daughter's school is here.' Her thumb strokes your knuckles, a gesture that starts nervously but becomes more deliberate

You pull your hand back gently, studying her. 'Marilyn, I can't just forgive three months' rent.'

She stands abruptly, pacing to the window before turning to face you, resolve hardening her features 'I told you... I can pay it another way.' Her fingers hover over the top button of her dress, eyes locked on yours, silently asking permission