The Bound Between Us

Chapter 618

Jason walked over to Isla, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Isla, you can call me Papa Jason from now on. If you ever need anything, just come to me." Then, turning to Alisa, he added, "Anastasia, if you ever find yourself in a bind, don't hesitate to reach out. I promised Will I'd look after you and your daughter."

He was ready to take on the fatherly role for Isla, honoring his friend's memory. For Alisa, his support would be financial, as he wasn't ready to share a living space.

Understanding the subtle rejection, Alisa forced a smile and said, "Let's eat before the food gets cold. Kids say the darnedest things, right, Jason? You've been a great help to us." "Of course," Jason nodded, taking his seat.

After dinner, Jason was about to handle the dishes when a call from work came in; duty called, so he excused himself to his study.

Isla helped Alisa with the dishes, both busy in the kitchen.

In a soft voice, Alisa instructed Isla, "Later, ask Uncle Luke to help with your homework, okay? Try to hit the hay early, alright?"

"Don't worry, Mom, I got this. I'll win Uncle

hoping he'd become the dad she wished for. Having a police officer as a dad would be so cool. Alisa, smiling, ruffled

it to Jason. "Papa Jason, have some strawberries. They're

smoothly started calling him

accepted a strawberry

Will you help

course," Jason replied. "What do you have

a few math

age. School life was tough with all those early mornings and late nights. Jason helped Isla with her homework while Alisa finished in the kitchen, moving on to laundry, washing Jason's clothes

head awkwardly.

with a smile. "I'll make some pot pies and freeze them for you. Homemade is better than store-bought." Embarrassed, Jason could only grin sheepishly. By the time Isla finished her homework, it was