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?"

thumbs-up. "Don't worry, Mom, I got this. I'll win Uncle Luke over

too, hoping he'd become the dad she wished for. Having a police officer as a dad would be so cool. Alisa, smiling, ruffled her daughter's hair. "That's my girl.

preparing the fruit, Isla carried it to Jason. "Papa Jason, have

started calling him Papa

Jason accepted a strawberry

Jason, I haven't finished my homework. Will you help

"What do you have

math problems and some

early mornings and late nights. Jason helped Isla with her homework while Alisa finished in the

handle his laundry, especially his underwear, made Jason scratch his head awkwardly. "Anastasia,

pies and freeze them for you. Homemade is better than store-bought." Embarrassed, Jason could only grin