They had already spent a portion of the money Julian Sterling donated!
The school couldn't accept a donation only to end up having to pay the money back, could it?
"I'll pay three times that amount."
Ryan Sterling wasn't concerned about the money.
All that mattered was denying Julian Sterling any opportunity to get close to Evelyn Grant and her family.
As his brother, Ryan naturally knew what Julian was up to.
'He wants to slowly infiltrate Evelyn's life, like boiling a frog in lukewarm water. By the time Evelyn realizes what's happening, it'll be too late.'
'For example, she might find herself in a situation at work or in her personal life that she can't easily back out of.'
'Or her family—her mother and brother—might become so indebted to Julian's "generosity" that they'd never be able to repay the favor!'
'Then, when the time is right, Julian will smoothly suggest grabbing dinner or ask her for a small favor as a way to get closer to her.'
