"Here." Ashley pulled out a five-dollar bill and handed it to the boy. "Take this as a down payment. Once I get back, I'll give you the rest."
The moment the bill touched his hand, the boy's eyes widened.
Ashley deliberately gave him only half of the promised amount. It was enough for him to taste the reward and stay motivated to fulfill his end of the bargain, but not enough for him to lose interest once he got paid.
Besides, while they were watching over the car, the children could use the money to buy snacks and share them among themselves. Ashley had already spotted a small convenience stall nearby, and five dollars would be more than enough for a group of children their age to enjoy a few treats together.
"Alright, beautiful sister! Leave it to me!" the boy declared proudly, thumping his thin chest as though he had just accepted an important mission.
