The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Anastasia grabbed her jacket from the couch, slipping it on as she said, "No need for us to clean up. Jarod will handle it. He might not even be in Riverdale anymore. If I'm right, he'll reach out today or by tomorrow morning at the latest."

Just then, her phone buzzed. It was Jarod.

She flashed the caller ID at Henry with a smirk. "Speak of the devil."

Her vibrant red lips curved into a smile, a captivating sight that could ensnare anyone's attention.

Henry was momentarily taken aback by her striking beauty, but he quickly regained his composure and chuckled. "Impressive."

A smart and beautiful woman was undeniably enchanting. Henry admired Anastasia but knew better than to entertain any romantic ideas. He was well aware that Anastasia belonged to Herman. Whether Herman was present or not, she was out of his league.

Unaware of Henry's thoughts, Anastasia answered the call. Jarod's voice came through, trying to sound conciliatory. "Ms. Anastasia, are you done with work? I'm downstairs at your office. How about we grab a late-night snack? Last night's incident was a complete misunderstanding, all thanks to that scoundrel Tristan ruining my reputation. I've already dealt with him."

"Not interested," Anastasia replied coolly. "I have no idea what happened with Tristan. As for last night, Mr. Jarod, I remember it all too clearly."

She was intentionally distancing herself from the situation. Whatever Jarod had done to Tristan was not her concern; she was merely a 'victim' in all this.

"Come on, Ms. Anastasia, it really was a misunderstanding. Don't hold a grudge over this," Jarod insisted, eager to stay on Anastasia's good side. It wasn't just her looks and intelligence; it was also because she was backed by Elysian Technologies.

Even without Herman, Elysian Technologies remained a powerhouse. Now that Anastasia was a widow, Jarod was eager to make a good impression on her.

Anastasia's voice turned icy. "Mr. Jarod, are you implying I'm holding a grudge? If that's the case, there's no need to collaborate on the South Bay Project anymore."

"No, no, let's definitely collaborate," Jarod hurriedly said. "Ms. Anastasia, I'm sincere about this. How about we discuss the South Bay Project over dinner? I'll concede two percent of the profits as a gesture of goodwill. Consider it my apology and an offer of friendship."

Anastasia was taken aback. Giving up two percent of the profits meant billions. She'd intended to use this situation to make Jarod back down, but he'd exceeded her expectations.

Feigning contemplation, she replied evenly, "If Mr. Jarod is that sincere, then I'll see you in a bit."

Jarod laughed warmly. "I'm right outside your office. Just come out the front door, and you'll see me."

He'd done his research, knowing Anastasia was at the office, which was why he was waiting at the entrance to catch her.

Anastasia ended the call without another word.

Henry offered, "Ma'am, would you like me to accompany you?"

"Yes, thank you for working late tonight," Anastasia replied, not wanting to meet Jarod alone.

Downstairs, Jarod stood by his car, eyes fixed on the office entrance. In an attempt to make amends, he'd even brought a gift.

After about ten minutes, Anastasia and Henry emerged.

"Ms. Anastasia," Jarod greeted with a broad smile, moving forward eagerly. "I

apologize for last night. Here's a little something as a peace offering."

He presented a pearl necklace, even larger than the one Katelyn had once given Anastasia.

Anastasia didn't

accept it, her

expression indifferent. "I appreciate the gesture, but you can keep the necklace. After all, Mr. Jarod has already conceded two percent, how could accept such an expensive gift?"

Jarod understood. It wasn't about the cost; Anastasia simply didn't accept gifts

from men other than Herman.

"My apologies for the oversight," Jarod said with a grin. "I've already reserved a

table. Would you like to join me in my car, Ms. Anastasia?"

"My driver is waiting over there," Anastasia replied. "I know a great diner that serves delicious late night snacks. Would you like to trydt, Mr. Jarod?"

"Absolutely," Jarod agreed. "Lead the way, Ms. Anastasia."

Anastasia gave Henry a knowing look, and they both got into a black car parked by the curb.

Tony was already waiting.

Once inside, Anastasia instructed Tony to head to the Night Market, a place she used to frequent at Blossom Lane.

She planned to take Jarod to a street food stall.

Memories of Herman flooded back to her. She remembered the times they had set up a stall at the Night Market, and even after moving to Southridge Estates, they'd often visit to enjoy snacks and milkshakes together.

The night sky occasionally lit up with streaks of light from planes, as the airportnoveldrama

wasn't far off.

Night deepened.

Just before dawn, a plane landed, and passengers began to disembark.

Herman exited the terminal alone and hailed a taxi.

"Where to, sir?" the taxi driver asked.

Herman wasn't sure, so he casually replied, "I'm a bit hungry. Anywhere with good food and a lively atmosphere?"

"Got just the place for you-Blossom Lane Night Market. It's close by and bustling at this hour," the driver suggested.