I pulled out the new phone he had given me that morning.
Jeremy's face instantly turned pale.
"Uncle Jeremy told me to keep it a secret from you, but if I'm moving back home, I guess I can't keep it hidden."
My mother's face turned dark.
"Did you buy this for her?"
Jeremy, trying to stay calm, quickly explained, "Susan needed a phone. I was worried about her."
Is this a regular mobile phone?!
My mother slammed her chopsticks down.
"And you rented her an apartment? Do you know how dangerous it is for a girl to live alone off-campus?!"
She stormed out, and Jeremy stumbled after her.
An hour later, they both returned, looking furious.
She had brought back all the items from the rental and questioned him one by one.
"Susan is about to start her final year of high school. Why did you buy her all this? What were you thinking?"
"The child is under a lot of academic pressure. I just wanted to help her relax. I'm sorry, Monica. I should have discussed it with you first."
"Jeremy, this isn't helping—it's spoiling her!" my mom snapped back.
"Monica, don't be upset. Your heart isn't in the best shape..."