Melrose Corporation began 2025 with $16,000 in stockholders' equity. Of this amount $10,000 was in common stock, and there were no changes in the common stock account during 2025. At December 31, 2025, Melrose had $18,500 in stockholders' equity. Melrose paid out $6,000 in dividends during the year. How much was its net income in 2025?

a.$8500

b.$18500

c.$2500

d.$6000

e. None