Obediently, Julie sat, feeling somewhat bewildered. Then, to her astonishment, Maria sat before her with a serious expression.

“Mom, thanks for taking care of me all these years," Maria said earnestly.

Julie was taken aback when she heard Maria's words.

"You... Silly girl, you don't owe me a thing. Don't talk like this.

Julie stuttered as she attempted to embrace Maria, but Maria still wore that serious expression.