Family Landlords Raise the Rent to Force One Sister Out
“We need to discuss the financial arrangements for this space,” Helen said, placing her phone face-up on the wood. “The expenses on this property have risen significantly over the last quarter.”
“My lease says nine hundred dollars a month,” I said. “We signed it in January.”
“That agreement was a temporary accommodation,” my mother said, her ring making a sharp click against the table. “Starting December first, the rent for this apartment is eighteen hundred dollars.”
I gasped, the air catching in my throat. “Eighteen hundred? That is double what I pay now. I cannot afford that on my salary, and you know it.”
“Then Vanessa will help you cover it,” Helen said.
“Vanessa does not have a job,” I said, looking at my sister.
Vanessa did not look back. She adjusted her sunglasses on top of her head and picked up a pen from my desk cup, twisting it between her fingers.
“She will find one when she is ready,” Helen said. “Until then, it is your responsibility as the older sister to ensure the family’s obligations are met.”
