The Perfect Lie

When Mia’s phone rang at 2:17 a.m., she almost ignored it—until she heard her brother’s voice.

“Mia… I messed up.” Her stomach dropped. Same laugh. Same shaky breath. Even the way he

said her name—dragging the i like he always did when he was scared. “I need money.

Now. Please don’t tell Mum.” Hands trembling, Mia opened her banking

app. Something felt off, but fear is louder than logic. She sent the transfer.

Ten minutes later, her phone buzzed again. This time it was a text from her

brother: Why are you calling me? I’m asleep. The room went cold.

The next morning, the story exploded online. Same scam. Same voice.