The Bond Between Us ( Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 720

Tavon was losing his cool, his patience worn thin. People can be so selfish, always picking on the easy targets. Tavon knew deep down that Ashley still had feelings for him, and no matter how much of a jerk he was, she’d still be there, circling around him like a moth to a flame.

He stumbled up the stairs, leaving Ashley wiping away her tears and chasing after him, ready for yet another argument. Women, Tavon thought, always had to have the last word. All Ashley really wanted was for him to turn around, see her for who she was, and build a life together.

But Tavon slammed the door in her face, leaving her outside, yelling and pleading as he buried himself under the covers, ignoring her cries.

Salma had seen through Tavon's selfishness ages ago. She’d let go of any fantasies. Sure, she could lend a helping hand when he was in trouble, but nothing more. No more daydreams.

There were too many women like Ashley in the world, thinking they could tie a man down, make him listen, love them. And when they didn’t get what they wanted, they’d grow hysterical, full of resentment. Women shouldn’t pin all their hopes on a man, Tavon thought. The more you expect, the more you’re let down. Once resentment builds, it’s tough to move on.

Alisa had a bit of Ashley in her too. When Jason got out of the hospital, she practically moved in to take care of him, doing everything to please him, refusing to leave. Feeling trapped, Jason had to call Ashley from the countryside. With Ashley back, Alisa had no excuse to stay.

The first day Ashley arrived, she saw right through Alisa. At first, Ashley treated Alisa like a friend’s partner, but once night fell, she decided to have a straightforward talk.

“Alisa,” Ashley said, “the Morton family will never accept you as a daughter-in-law. You should let go of that idea.” Ashley was direct, cutting through the nonsense like a hot knife through butter.

Alisa’s face flushed with embarrassment, caught off guard. “Mrs. Morton, Jason and I…” Alisa forced a smile. “We’re together. If there’s something you don’t like about me, I can change.”

Alisa was humiliated, her face burning with shame, her hands clenched tight. “Mrs. Morton, I told you, it’s not about the money.”

Ashley laughed. “You haven’t taken money from my son?”

“That money was…” Alisa faltered, knowing she had taken it. “I’ve contributed too. It was mutual.”

“Enough,” Ashley waved her off. “You’ve taken the money and now want more? Don’t be greedy. Go home. You’ll never be my daughter-in-law. My son would rather stay single forever than marry someone like you.”