Irene lowered her head and said softly, "Three thousand dollars."

"Oh, that's a small sum! You should have told me about it earlier. I would have helped you with that." Mr. Woods pretended to be generous. "It's also okay if Sam helps you. Since you want to resign, I'll settle your pay tomorrow."

"Thank you, Mr. Woods."

"Don't mention it. I will give you a little more money. This would have been your grandmother's pension for all the years of service. You can use it to pay your school fees," Mr. Woods said.

Irene was extremely grateful. She immediately thanked him, "Thank you! I thank you on Grandma's behalf!"

"Thank you for taking care of Lucas these past few months," Mr. Woods said. "It's late. Go home!"

"Okay! I'll clean the kitchen and leave." Irene cleared the plates from the dining table.

Mr. Woods walked to Lucas' room. Lucas did not lock his room. Mr. Woods turned the doorknob, pushed the door, and entered.

When Irene had finished tidying up and was about to leave, Mr. W