Two new credit inquiries stared back at me: Capital One and Discover Card. Both dated from three weeks ago. Both showing my name and Social Security number, but the address listed was my parents’ house in Littleton, not my Denver apartment.
With numb fingers, I clicked through to the full credit report. Two new accounts, both opened within the last month, both already carrying significant balances. Capital One: $1,847. Discover: $1,293.
I pulled up the transaction details with a sinking feeling of horrified certainty. Cherry Creek Events Center. Platinum DJ Services. Glam Studio Makeup & Hair. Party City. Floral arrangements. Custom cake bakery. Every single charge was for Avery’s Sweet Sixteen party.
My mother’s text flashed through my mind: Need $2,100 for your sister’s Sweet 16.
