Chapter 3

"Willow, help Mom buy this. I'll transfer you the money tomorrow."

I clicked the link. It was Bluetooth earphones, priced at $98.80.

I laughed coldly.

So because I wouldn't lend my brother money, Mom would come asking me for money to buy what my brother wanted.

I didn't buy it and didn't reply. I set my chat with my mom to "do not disturb."

The next evening, Mom actually called again.

I answered. Mom's gentle voice was completely different from when she questioned me yesterday.

"Willow, were you busy today?"

"What is it?"

She seemed not to expect me to become so cold. She laughed dryly, then asked:

"By the way, did you buy the Bluetooth earphones for me?"

I pretended to suddenly realize:

"Oh, I forgot. My memory hasn't been good lately!"

"Then buy it for me quickly. After you buy it, I won't bother you anymore. Don't worry, I'll transfer the money to you later."

I knew very well there would be no transfer. I simply turned off my phone and ignored it.

Three days passed. My phone received no messages from them. It was quite peaceful.

The holiday was approaching. My roommate Megan curiously came over and asked:

"What are you planning to do during the break?"

"What else? Go home."

After saying that, Mom's call came through again. Megan saw the caller ID and kindly reminded me:

"Don't forget to ask your mom for the transfer, or you won't even have money to buy a ticket home."

I smiled. What she didn't know was that this time I hadn't paid for anything for them at all.

"Willow, where's the thing I asked you to buy last time?"

I pretended not to understand: "Mom, what thing?"

The air froze for a moment before Mom spoke:

"The earphones I asked you to buy for me. You didn't forget, did you?"

I hadn't forgotten, but I also hadn't bought them.

"Oh, I was waiting for you to transfer the money so I could buy them, then I forgot. Mom, is my forgetfulness hereditary?"

Even through the phone I could feel her struggling to contain her anger:

"Child, what nonsense are you talking about!"

Mom quickly changed the subject: "The holiday's coming soon, right? Don't forget to buy those earphones when you come back."

I agreed.

"Don't worry, Mom. Leave it to me."

Since that's how it is, I'll take advantage of the New Year to give her a big gift.