There's no way to put it nicely.
They are poor.
Her father died years ago. In a fishing accident. The bottom of his boat sprung a leak.
She never really knew him. He died when she was only four.
But sometimes, she can picture his face.
And now her mother is afraid of the ocean.
So they own a store. To make a little money
And live on the poor side of town. Eating flat, lifeless bread. Sleeping on mats by the glowing fire.
She used to resent her mother. Now she just wonders if things will ever get better.