The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 541

Monica shot Jason a glare that could curdle milk and spat out, "Jerk."

Little did she know, Jason had the nerve to actually look.

"It's your fault for mentioning it; I'm just visually confirming," Jason said with mock seriousness, "Exaggeration much?"

Monica was at a loss for words.

Alisa watched the two exchanging barbs with a hint of flirtation and felt a twinge of discomfort, but she said, "Jason, don't be like that to Monica. She's such a knockout, she wouldn't have any trouble finding a guy. Monica, maybe you should go for someone older, someone who's got his act together, someone who'd treat you right."

Monica didn't mince words: "I never date guys over 22. Especially those thirty-somethings—all show and no go. Most of them can't cut it in the ways that count."

Jason, who was thirty himself, felt the sting.

Alisa blushed at Monica's brazen talk. Was this really something people said out loud?

Seeing that Monica wasn't into Jason, Alisa felt a bit relieved.

After dinner, Alisa went to do the dishes, but Jason said, "Annie, you don't have to work so hard. Leave it—I'll take care of it. Here's this month's allowance; go ahead and take it."

Jason handed Alisa a stack of bills amounting to five hundred.

Monica, snacking on fruit in the living room, thought their relationship was a bit odd. Here was Annie, cooking meals, and Jason giving her money.

Alisa tried to refuse: "I don't need it. I've got enough."

"With what you make at the supermarket every month, plus looking after Izzy and taking care of your aunt and the rest? How can that be enough? Before Bill passed away, I promised him I'd look after you and your daughter. Take the money," Jason insisted, pushing the cash into Alisa's hands.

Monica started to get the picture.

After hanging around a bit longer, Monica decided to leave. Jason walked her to the entrance of the complex and asked, "You free tomorrow?"

"If I am, I'll just end up getting dragged along to solve another case with you," Monica joked. "I've helped you out so much, shouldn't the precinct award me a commendation? Like, 'Outstanding Citizen' or something? My parents would be so proud."

"Alright, I'll put in a word with my superiors," Jason replied.

Monica perked up. "What's the case tomorrow?"