The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Anastasia shook her head, turning down Tavon's offer to head back to Willowbrook and take over Morton Group.

"I want to carve out my own path," she said. "Anything that's not truly mine will eventually slip away, no matter how tightly I hold on."

It was like her relationship with Herman; they were from two different worlds, and their insistence on being together had led to such an unfortunate end.

While she was in the detention center, she thought if she had been born into a better family or had been stronger herself, Grannie Anita wouldn't have looked down on her, and things might have turned out differently. Compatibility in status does matter.

Seeing Anastasia's firm resolve, Tavon didn't push further. "You've just come back, so take some time to rest. If you ever decide to join Morton Group, the door's always open. I've always believed in your talent. Things are hectic at the company right now, so I need to head back to Willowbrook. If you need anything, just let your old man know."

Anastasia gave a small smile. "That's probably the nicest thing you've said in a long time. I know what you're aiming for, but it still warms my heart. Thanks. I'll reach out if I need to."

After everything she'd been through, Anastasia could see through Tavon's intentions clearly.

Herman's divorce was a reluctant act. As long as it wasn't Herman who abandoned her and he still thought about her, she had a safety net.

If she took charge of Morton Group, Herman would naturally support her from behind the scenes.

In this, Anastasia had to admire Tavon's foresight.

Her bluntness made Tavon a bit sheepish, and he chuckled awkwardly. "Ana, I've been in the business world for so many years, sometimes I can't help but weigh things in terms of profit and loss. But no matter what, you're my daughter. I'm proud you've come through this. I've never really stood tall in my life, always kowtowing to the Stantons. Now, I fear nothing. If it comes down to it, let's have a showdown. If my daughter can be so brave, what do I have to fear?"

Anastasia's bold move against Grannie Anita had indeed earned Tavon's respect.

Anastasia laughed at herself. "If I could do it over, I'd probably choose to be a coward too."

The price she had paid was too high to bear.

Tavon smiled. "Ana, I can tell Herman still cares for you. Once this is all over, you two might find a way back to each other."

Anastasia shook her head, saying nothing.

She and Herman were destined to be strangers in this lifetime.

Between them lay the weight of two lives.

...

In the hospital.

Herman waking up was a cause for celebration for the Salstrom family. Katelyn and Feiman breathed sighs of relief.

Katelyn fussed over him, asking what he wanted to eat and if anything was troubling him.

Feiman was also incessant, and Flynn cheerfully reported on the company's affairs, telling Herman not to worry.

But from the moment he woke up, Herman hadn't said a word. He lay quietly, staring out the window.

No one knew what he was thinking.

Seeing Herman like this, Katelyn's eyes brimmed with tears.

Feiman fell silent, then said with a wave of his hand, "The main thing is you're awake. We can deal with anything else. There's no hurdle we can't overcome. Your grandmother's funeral is next Friday. Don't forget what you promised." With that, Feiman left.

Flynn said, "Big brother, Anastasia left without asking for anything, not even the house at Harmony Meadows or any alimony."

At these words, a flicker of reaction crossed Herman's eyes, somber and resigned. "That's just like her."

His voice was hoarse and unclear, having not spoken for so long.

Hearing him speak, Katelyn and Flynn were visibly uplifted.

Flynn continued, "Anastasia's moved back into her old apartment with Pattie."

"Okay," Herman murmured, a deep pain crossing his eyes. Even in his coma, he had been aware of the outside world; he knew Anastasia had visited. "I'd like to be alone for a while. You guys go on home." Katelyn nodded. "Alright, I'll head home and make you some soup to bring back later."

Flynn hesitated, wanting to say more, but ultimately left the room with Katelyn.

Herman was left alone in the quiet hospital room. After what seemed like an eternity, the door opened once more. Herman turned his head slightly to see who had arrived, and his expression showed a hint of surprise.