The man's hand, hovering awkwardly in the air, finally dropped. He had no reason to push further. He understood her need for independence, her fierce desire to be alone. He swallowed, his throat suddenly dry, and nodded, accepting her refusal. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a lot of money and handed it over to her.
"According to what you were saying, you needed money for transport, you have trekked a long distance" he said softly. "I figured this could get you where you need to go. And if it's not enough, please, don't hesitate to ask. I don't like the thought of you walking all that way, especially alone, most especially now that everywhere is so insecure is good." 
She looked at him for a moment, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and apprehension. She shook her head, her voice barely a whisper. "You're a kind man, Mr. Jason. I truly appreciate your offer, the food, everything. But I don't need the money. I can walk, I can really walk on my own, I do enjoy walking."
He watched as she turned away, her shoulders slumped with weariness. He knew there was nothing more he could do. He watched her disappear into the street, a wave of concern washing over him.
He truly wanted to help, his intentions were pure. He wasn't trying to take advantage of her, just offering a helping hand. But her fear, her reluctance, it baffled him. He didn't understand why she was so wary, so guarded.
Maybe he hadn't done enough. Maybe he should have followed her, offered more than just money, he could have offered solace at least. Maybe he could have found out where she was going, what she needed. But how could he carry another person's burdens without knowing them, without their trust?  
Kate just doesn't want him around her and that's all that matters. He sighed, the weight of her unspoken pain settling on his shoulders. He had to let her go, but the echo of her fear lingered in the air, a silent plea he couldn't ignore, but nevertheless he still let her go, since she doesn't want to stay. He wasn't going to force her to.
However, Gina's heart pounded in her chest as she walked away from Jason's house, walking lonely at the street was so scary to her. She knew she shouldn't have left. He was kind, genuinely trying to help. But fear, a deep, primal fear, held her back. She couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong, that accepting his help would only lead her to betrayal that could eventually end her life, being careful is the best choice.
She knew she was being irrational. Jason obviously didn't even know she was the missing girl the politician was looking for. He was just a good man, trying to do the right thing. If he discovered her secret, maybe, just maybe, they would build a bond strong enough to withstand any betrayal.
But the thought of being betrayed, of being tricked, back to the davil she has been running away from, Mr Danforth, sent shivers down her spine. Mr. Danforth is still the most ruthless politician in the country, capable of anything to get what he wanted. She is sure that he must have already dropped a bid on her head for anyone who would bring her back to him, and there will be plenty of people willing to take the money and then in search of her by now.
Gina's mind raced. She had nowhere to go, no one to turn to. Staying on the streets was dangerous, a constant risk of being found. Maybe returning to Jadon's house was the best option. At least she would have a roof over her head, a place to rest. She could try to escape again, but she had already tried everything.
She however began to believe that she was being foolish for leaving Jason's home, it could have been the most secured place she have got for now, but she was scared. She was tired of running, tired of hiding. Maybe, just maybe, Jason was her only chance. But the fear, the deep, gnawing fear, was a heavy weight on her soul.
•
•
However after looking at Kate walking away till she's off sight, Jason stepped into his house, he didn't waste any time. He opened the fridge, grabbed a chilled bottle of wine, and poured himself a glass. Taking a long sip, he settled into his plush couch, reaching for the remote to turn on the television.
His mind was no longer on Kate who had just left his home. Mr. Jason was far too busy for such thoughts. He wasn't jobless, despite spending his days at home. He had a vast network of businesses, each one churning out profits. He had a team of dedicated employees handling everything. He was a man of considerable wealth, and the idea of Kate suggesting he open a restaurant struck him as amusing. He had millions, his money flowed like water, and he couldn't help but chuckle at the thought.
It wasn't a bad idea, though. Adding restaurants and hotels to his portfolio would only increase his fortune. The more he thought about it, the more appealing it seemed. He could create a new brand, a chain of luxurious hotels and restaurants. He envisioned Kate as the manager, overseeing all the operations. But then he remembered her arrogance, her self-centered nature. He didn't want to dwell on her. He picked up the remote and switched on the TV, hoping to distract himself.
"This girl murdered two other girls in Mr. Danforth's home, then killed four bodyguards. She's been on the run ever since. The police and everyone else searching for her haven't found a single trace. There's no official statement from the police yet, just rumors. But let's see what they uncover and how they'll bring this girl to justice."
The news report was the first thing he saw after turning on the TV. He was stunned. The girl they were referring to on the screen, the one they were calling a murderer, was the same girl who had just left his house moments ago.
He finally understood why she'd been so evasive, so desperate to cover her tracks. She knew what she'd done, and she thought she could hide forever. But she was wrong. He'd seen her, and others would see her too. It was only a matter of time before she was reported to the police and caught. She should have stayed with him. Leaving like that, on foot, was reckless. She was putting herself in danger.
Jason was glued to the television, completely engrossed in the news report.
"Mr. Danforth has placed a $4 million bounty on anyone who can provide information leading to her arrest. He's offering an additional $10 million for anyone who brings her to him directly. For a solo capture, he'll add another $5 million, bringing the total reward to $20 million! Wow!! what are you all still waiting? you could grab up to $20 million dollars in a day job just for helping to fight corruption!!"
"That's all for today. We'll keep you updated as we get more information. Stay tuned for the latest developments. See you next time."
The newscaster ended the report, and Jason immediately switched off the TV. He couldn't believe it. Twenty million dollars had just walked out of his house! He was furious. He couldn't just sit there and do nothing. He couldn't chase after her himself. That would be foolish. Others would join the hunt, and they'd all share the reward. But if he could capture her alone, all that money would be his.
Then he began trying to decide what his next move, how exactly is he going to find the girl and the trick her to Mr. Danforth? Hmm tough decision for him, well he also has to be a fast thinker because other people might be on the mission on.
However, all of a sudden a knock came up on his door. He went to open it and was surprised to see the same girl, Kate, standing there.
"Hey, are you alright? you...? you came back?" he asked, his voice laced with genuine concern. He knew he wouldn't let her leave again.
"Yes? ummm.... I.... I'm so sorry for how I acted before. I was just nervous, that's all," Gina said, a hesitant smile gracing her lips. "My name isn't Kate. It's Gina."
Jason stared at her, his eyes wide with surprise. Gina's hand trembled slightly, fearing he would reject her after her previous behavior. She kept smiling, trying to appear confident, but her eyes pleaded for a second chance.
"Okay, Gina... come inside," Jason said, his voice calm and welcoming. Gina let out a sigh of relief. She thought she'd lost him. She stepped inside, and a sly smile played on Jadon's lips. He had hit the jackpot.
Seems the girl have already trusted him, this was going to be an easy mission.