The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Anastasia was holding onto hope, even the slightest chance, and now with solid evidence in hand, she was determined to keep a close eye on Gianna. She had learned to keep her emotions in check, knowing that staying calm was key to getting her daughter back.

When Salma heard that Cynthia and Gianna were involved, she was furious. "So it was them? Why would they take Pattie? Heartless witches! We've never done anything to them. Your aunt is my own sister, and Gianna's your cousin. Just because she had a crush on your husband and he didn't feel the same, she's gone twisted. What kind of people are they?"

Salma was nearly dizzy with anger, her words hitting the nail on the head. It baffled her how family could do such things without any real reason.

"People can be so depraved; they just need an excuse," Anastasia murmured. "If Gianna hadn't been scarred, maybe she wouldn't have done this. She wants to drag everyone down with her."

"That's just sick," Salma fumed. "The ungrateful snake! When your aunt's family was in trouble, I helped, and when Gianna got arrested, you bailed her out. This is the thanks we get?"

"Mom, I don't care about their motives now. I just want Pattie back safe. If anything happens to her, I won't forgive Gianna." Anastasia stood up. "I'm going to rest. You should too."

"Ana, your husband's been coming home late lately. Keep an eye on him. He's got it tough too," Salma advised.

"I know, Mom." Anastasia returned to her room, not to rest but to wait for Herman, reading until he came home.

Herman came back at 1 a.m., trying not to wake Anastasia. Seeing her awake, he gently scolded, "Why are you still up? It's not good for you, especially when you're pregnant."

"I can't relax when you're not here," Anastasia sat up.

"I'll go with you for the prenatal checkup tomorrow," Herman said softly, holding her hand. "Don't worry."

He knew she was always concerned about him.

After kissing her forehead, he assured her, "As long as you and the baby are okay, I'm not tired. You're my everything."

Anastasia touched his furrowed brow. "It's been a while since you smiled, Herman. You know, you look really good when you do."

She loved his smile; it was like a breath of fresh air.

Herman managed a small smile, "Let's get some rest. I'll take a shower."

"Okay." Anastasia smiled back. The tougher life got, the more they needed to face it with a smile.

Anastasia got into bed, unable to sleep. Soon after, Herman joined her, instinctively wrapping his arms around her. No matter how the world outside changed, as long as their hearts were together, she believed they could get through anything. For Herman, tired from the day's demands, holding Anastasia was the only time he felt truly at peace, allowing him to sleep soundly.

The next day, Herman postponed his morning meetings to go with Anastasia to her first prenatal checkup.

Being somewhat public figures, they wore masks and had a driver take them to a private clinic, known for its peace and quality care. Herman had made an appointment, so they went straight to the examination.

While Anastasia was inside, Herman waited in the hallway, speaking quietly on the phone.

Julie, coming out of a nearby examination room and spotting Herman, quickly put on her mask. She was there for a minor issue and hadn't expected to see Herman. Given the setting, she quickly guessed Anastasia was with him.