Chapter 47
“Are you feeling uncomfortable?” Jason was short of breath as if he had been looking for her for a long time.
“How… How did you know I’m here?” Anastasia stared at Jason in bewilderment.
Jason crouched beside Anastasia and gave her a reassuring pat on the back. “I asked Kimberly. She mentioned you had gone to visit Alastor’s grandmother.”
Anastasia slowly rose to her feet. Her head was spinning, and her steps were unsteady.
Instinctively, Jason reached out and helped Anastasia to her feet.
“Is there something I can help you with?” Anastasia pulled her wrist free and distanced herself from Jason.
A trace of sadness flashed through Jason’s eyes. He took out a bank card and asked, “Did you leave this with Grandma?*
“Jason…” Anastasia took a deep breath. “Whether you’re Jace or not, take the money and leave Hork with Grandma Penelope.”
“And don’t return if you can,” she continued in her mind.
“Why?” Jason’s eyes welled up with redness.
“Do you have money? Anastasia met Jason’s gaze.
It was not her intention to undermine Jason; rather, she was trying to be realistic.
He had nothing-no influential connections, distinguished background, prominent family, or wealth.
“How much could he possibly earn working at a bar? If he were to offend Alastor, the latter has the ability to jeopardize Jason’s job.” Anastasia thought.
Jason parted his lips as he wanted to say something, but he held back from doing so.
“Do you have a prominent family?” Anastasia pressed further.
“Do you have a distinguished background? Or even any influential connections?” Anastasia’s voice faltered. “You have nothing at all. If you were to lose your job, how will you sustain yourself and Grandma Penelope?”
Anastasia took a step backward. “Jason, Alastor wants a divorce. He and Felicia have gone off the deep end. They lash out at anyone they come across. I don’t want to drag you into this mess.”
“I’m not afraid of them” Jason declared while stepping closer. “As long as you divorce him. I’ll protect you.”
“How can you protect me?” Anastasia’s voice grew louder. “Weren’t you the one asking why I rushed into a marriage with Alastor? I’ll tell you why-I’m driven by materialism, which is the reason I’m clinging to him like a beggar! I’m drawn to his social status and capabilities! It’s also because he can offer me the sense of security and safety I long for!”
Jason stood rooted to the spot with his hands clenched into tight fists.
“And he’s unlike you, who are down and out. You promised to protect me, yet you vanished without a trace!” Anastasia’s words cut deep, and she was fully aware of the weight they carried.
She was also aware that her very existence seemed to be a curse upon Jace.
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