The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Jarod's surprise was as genuine as it gets. This wasn't the kind of place he'd ever find himself, if not for Anastasia bringing him along. And Herman? He didn't strike as someone who'd frequent a lively street market either.

Jarod's world was filled with glitz and glamour: stunning women by his side, luxury yachts, exclusive clubs, golf courses, and even underground boxing matches.

But Anastasia challenged him, "Why couldn't he enjoy a place like this? Before Herman, I used to run a stall here."

Anastasia wanted Jarod to see she wasn't some pampered heiress or trophy wife, nor one of those arm candy girls he was used to. She was a self-made woman who'd risen from humble beginnings.

Jarod didn't know much about her past, just that her upbringing wasn't affluent. As Mrs. Salstrom, she was often seen as an accessory to Herman, remembered for her striking beauty rather than her name.

Her marriage into wealth was just a stepping stone, but those who truly knew Anastasia understood she was no ordinary woman. She was like a rare gem, full of surprises.

Sipping her coffee, she continued, "Mr. Jarod, see that spot with the street vendors over there? That used to be me, with a little van and a stall selling handmade jewelry. I studied jewelry design, but I've moved on from that now. These days, my focus is on managing a company with thousands of employees. I owe that to Herman."

Jarod gave a thumbs up, "Ms. Anastasia, not many people earn my respect, but you're definitely one of them-the first woman, actually. I'm confident our collaboration on the South Bay Project will be a success."

Anastasia offered a gentle smile, raising her coffee cup, "Here's to a fruitful partnership."

"To a great partnership," Jarod replied, clinking his cold coffee cup against hers. He chuckled, "Discussing business over coffee is a first for me. It's refreshing."

Anastasia laughed, "Coffee keeps us alert, Mr. Jarod. You don't have to worry about being drugged."

Jarod felt a twinge of embarrassment, recalling the previous night's mishap. "I got caught off guard last night, fell into a trap. Sorry you had to see that, Ms. Anastasia."

In truth, Anastasia knew it was Tristan's scheme that ensnared Jarod, and it had

little to do with him personally. That's why she was willing to meet him to discuss the South Bay Project.

"I just heard from Henry that last night was indeed a

misunderstanding, Mr. Jarod," Anastasia said, glancing at Henry beside her, intentionally crafting her words for Jarod. She understood the complexities of the situation better than anyone but chose to let it lie.

"That Tristan, he's a real piece of work, deceitful to the core. I've dealt with him, and you won't see him again," Jarod fumed, recalling how

he'd been drugged and end how

up

with an unimpressive woman who managed to extort ten grand from him. He'd spent even more to buy back the incriminating photos from a journalist, not to hide his infidelity but to protect his reputation from being questioned about his taste.

Anastasia decided not to pursue the topic further. Checking the time, she said, "It's fate, Mr. Jarod. We'll wrap it up here. Henry will come by your office tomorrow to sign the contract. It's the weekend, and I need to spend time with my kids." noveldrama

After a hectic few days, she was ready for a break.

"No problem," Jarod agreed easily.

With Henry having settled the bill, Anastasia said her goodbyes to Jarod and left with Henry.

It was past midnight, and Anastasia was exhausted. She closed her eyes to rest as the car navigated through the street food area.

The car hadn't traveled more than a hundred meters when they passed Herman buying a hot dog at a stand.

Herman instinctively turned to glance at the passing car. And as if sensing his gaze, Anastasia suddenly opened her eyes, as if drawn by an invisible thread of connection...