Mrs. Xavier's eyes reddened when she heard Vera's words, but she said, "The Preston family isn't doing well right now either. You should keep this money for your tuition. I've heard that college is expensive these days, and I don't want you to have to be so frugal that your classmates make fun of you!"
Vera gave a small laugh. "You don't have to worry about that, Mom. I can cover my tuition and living expenses with scholarships and a work-study job once I'm in college. Besides, with grades as good as mine, who would dare to make fun of me?"
A pang went through Mrs. Xavier's heart as she looked at how sensible her daughter was. Vera continued, "I just happened to be there for Chloe's incident today. I don't want anything like that to happen again. So, no matter what, Chloe and Drew need to study hard, finish school, and get into college. You don't have to worry too much about their tuition, Mom. I'll figure something out."
