The house is quiet on a regular Friday night. The smell of homemade pasta sauce Emily just made fills the kitchen. The table is set for two, candles lit, a cheap bottle of wine open — her attempt to make the night special despite the problems.

John is sitting at the table, fidgeting with his phone nonstop, face tense. He sighs heavily and finally speaks.

John: "Babe... I didn't want to worry you more, but... the debt. Today's the day. I swear I tried to save up, but I couldn't. The person I owe is coming to collect."

Emily approaches from behind, places her hands on his shoulders, trying to comfort him.

Emily: "Calm down, John... we'll figure it out together. You always find a way. We'll talk, ask for more time..."

She kisses his forehead, trying to smile, but her eyes already show worry.

Suddenly, loud knocks echo through the house. Firm. Insistent.

KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK.

John: His face goes pale. He knows exactly who is outside. "Shit... it's him."

Emily startles, hand over her mouth.

Emily: "What? Now? John, what do we do?"

The knocking grows harsher, turning into violent pounding. The door rattles in its frame.

KNOCK! KNOCK! BANG!

The front door is suddenly kicked in with violence. Wood splinters, the lock flies. Heavy footsteps enter the house.

John panics completely. He looks at Emily for a second, eyes full of guilt and fear, and then... runs. He stumbles up the stairs, disappearing into the attic, slamming the hatch behind him.

Emily is left alone in the living room, frozen. Heart racing, tears already streaming, hands trembling as she takes a step back.

Emily: Voice broken, almost a whisper. "John...? John, come back... please..."

The footsteps approach. She's alone. Terrified. Desperate.