“It would be illegal, insider trading kind of thing, buddies helping buddies,” my dad adds, his face pensive. “No, that won’t work. We can’t do that.”

Feeling anxious, I sit forward. “I wasn’t thinking of a fundraiser but more of a loan.”

My mom’s eyes widen. “A loan?” Then she starts to shake her head. “Harbor, that’s not ever wise. We adore Lark, but she would be indebted to us for years. It could be twenty or even thirty or more.”

My dad says, “No, I’m sorry. That’s not possible.”

“I was thinking the loan would be for me.”

“No,” my dad is swift in a reply. “You are not going to carry that burden. You do realize that I work so hard to make sure that my family is taken care of. We want each of you to launch into the world not only free of debt while supporting your dreams to help you soar in whatever you choose to do. We won’t saddle you with that kind of debt when it’s not yours to begin with.”

“My dreams include her, and her dream is to be a doctor.”

Touching my arm, my mom leans closer. “My charity can set up another scholarship. It won’t cover medical school but can potentially give access to a thousand or upward of five thousand each year. I’ve been wanting to support students who choose to further their education. She would apply and be approved, but I think her being from Beacon and utilizing our wonderful local institution for undergrad will work in her favor.”

“You’re not listening to me.” I stand and walk to the window to look out.

“We’re here and listening, Harbor,” my dad states. “The issue you’ve taken with us is that you’re not happy with our decision. Did you think we would just say, here’s three hundred thousand dollars to do as you please?”

Getting upset will get me nowhere with them, but I’m now on the defense. “You’re not giving me money to do as I please, Dad. This is for Lark to follow her dreams.”

“And she should follow them, but we can’t bankroll them for her.”

“I love her.”

“Honey,” my mom says, her shoulders falling as the conversation intensifies.

I walk the length of the office but stop, needing the space, and look back at them. I was unprepared for what I was asking and for their answer. This isn’t a well-thought-out plan. It’s me trying to save my relationship. “I realize what I’m asking is—”

“It’s ludicrous, son.”

“It’s not. I’ll do anything . . .” The desperate plea to my tone almost brings me to my knees, willing to beg, to do anything to help her so we can stay together. “I’ll do anything to bring the light back into her eyes. She spends every day and all night looking for ways to supplement the aid. I don’t want her in Texas simply because they made her the best offer. I want to wake to the melody of her laughter and see the smile I fell in love with back on her face.”