The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 540

Jason couldn't help but frown as he noticed Monica's scattered thoughts. "Monica," he said, his tone firm, "she's my buddy's wife. Some jokes are fine, but there's a line. Not everything’s a laughing matter."

Monica could tell Jason was annoyed and pouted. "I was just asking, for crying out loud."

"No need to change shoes—just wash up. Dinner's ready," Jason said curtly before heading to the bathroom.

Alisa brought out some cutlery, and a somewhat embarrassed Monica followed suit to wash her hands.

Jason, being a cop, was a stickler for cleanliness, always insisting on using sanitizer before meals.

Monica teased him for being overly prim and proper, chiding, "What's with Mr. Clean here? Since when do tough guys need to be so spotless?"

Soon, the trio sat down to eat. Monica regretted coming; she felt out of place. Leaving now, though, would be awkward.

Internally, Monica grumbled about Jason’s stinginess. He'd invited her for dinner, but it wasn’t a fancy night out or a home-cooked feast by his own hands. But she kept chatting away, despite her inner gripes.

"Jason, try this chicken noodle soup," Alisa offered, ladling some into his bowl with a caring touch. "It's good for the soul."

"Thanks, Alisa," Jason said with a polite nod.

Alisa's gaze lingered on Jason with a softness that only a woman in love could have.

After tasting the soup and finding it delicious, Jason served Monica a bowl, saying, "You're always in dusty places with me. Have some—it'll do you good."

"Aw, you do care," Monica replied with a chuckle, sipping the soup. "Alisa, you've outdone yourself. This is scrumptious."

Alisa watched their exchange, her eyes clouding over with a touch of sadness as she murmured, "Just takes practice."

"Where's Isla?" Jason inquired.

"I dropped her off at her grandma's. She was missing her," Alisa explained.