With a deep breath, I picked up the phone, dialing the number on the letter. The line connected with a click, and an automated voice prompted me through a series of options. I waited patiently until finally, a human voice came on the line. “Thank you for calling. How can I assist you today?” I explained the situation as succinctly as I could, trying to mask the unease that crept into my voice. “I received a notice about a debt, but I’m trying to understand where it originated.” Silence on the other end, then the clatter of keys as they pulled up records. “It seems this amount is linked to a credit card under your joint account,” they said, their tone professional yet distant.
“Is there any way to get more details on these transactions?” I asked, trying to keep the desperation out of my voice. “We can send a detailed statement to your registered email,” the representative offered. I agreed, thanking them before hanging up. My spouse entered the room, casually glancing at the table. “Who was that?” they asked, their expression unreadable. “Just checking on the notice,” I replied, attempting nonchalance. “It just needs sorting out.” My spouse nodded and turned away, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
The email arrived an hour later, a PDF attachment filled with line after line of transactions. Each entry was a puzzle piece, fitting into a larger picture I hadn’t yet fully grasped. I scanned through, noting recurring charges I didn’t recognize. Gym memberships, online subscriptions, and other expenses. My heart sank as the reality of the situation began to take shape.
