Chapter 138

"Why did he say that?" Javier's mother asked. 

"He didn't give a reason," Claire replied softly. "But Javier has been of help to me. Maybe he has his reasons." 

"What reasons?" She let go of Claire's hand and turned away, her shoulder tense. "He has a lot of company; is that money too much for him that he can't pay your daughter's tuition?" 

Claire reached out, gently touching Javier's mother's shoulder. "I don't really mind paying for my daughter's tuition. I was the one who wanted to take her to that school, so it is right for me to pay for it. Besides, she will soon graduate in two years. I can manage it until then." 

Javier's mother turned back to Claire and embraced her tightly. "Don't worry, I will talk to Javier for you." 

"Don't talk to him," she said, pulling back slightly to look her in the eyes. "If you do, it will sound like I am not happy about it, which isn't true. I don't want to act spoiled."