Chapter 124

Jenny turned around, looking momentarily chastened. "Yes, ma'am," she replied, rising to her feet. As she walked away, she glanced back at Alisa, her mind already on the task Javier had given her. 

Alisa looked up and saw Javier's mother, who was approaching her. Alisa stood up, her body tense. "Good afternoon, ma'am." 

"So, you are the one my son wanted me to look after?" Javier's mother asked, her tone cool and appraising. 

Alisa didn't say anything. 

What's going on with him and the child's mother? she wondered. Why does he see them again? 

Javier's mother sat down, picking up a book from the nearby stand. "I've forgotten your name," she said without looking up. "What is it?" 

"Alisa," she replied softly. 

"That's a good name," she nodded, finally glancing at Alisa. "Are you a soldier? Why are you standing?" 

"Oh," Alisa quickly sat down. "I hope I'm not disturbing you,"