Mom Sent Me a Bill

After I started college, Mom said she'd send me money in installments.

"Lucia, you're an adult now. I want you to learn how to manage money, so I'll give you your living expenses in installments."

I figured she meant monthly. Maybe weekly, worst case.

Then move-in day came.

Mom walked around the cafeteria, checked the prices, and sent $8 to my payment app.

I stared at my phone. "Mom, did you send the wrong amount?"

She smiled. "Silly girl. That's your lunch money for today. I checked already. Just get the cheapest grab-and-go meal.

"From now on, ask me for money before each meal."