The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Anastasia felt a chill run down her spine as she asked, "Why on earth would that girl wipe out her entire family? What kind of deep-seated hatred would drive someone to do something so extreme?"noveldrama

Monica patted the couch and said, "Take a seat, Ana, and let me fill you in. This girl wasn't their biological daughter; she was adopted. Five years ago, she got married. Her in-laws were pretty strapped for cash, but then they hit the jackpot with a property deal, netting a cool three million and three houses to boot. Her own family started hounding her for money, causing all sorts of drama. Later, her husband died in a car accident, and her family caused a scene, demanding a share of the inheritance, which practically drove her in-laws to their graves..."

The girl's once peaceful life was shattered by her own kin.

When the girl got pregnant with what would have been her late husband's child, her family, fearing the inheritance would be split further, forced her to take abortion pills, killing the unborn baby.

That loss was the last straw for the girl. Driven to madness, she poisoned her family's food and then butchered them all.

After hearing the story, Anastasia, though she had never met the girl, felt a pang of empathy and understanding.

Hadn't Ana herself been consumed with rage at one point?

Monica continued, "They had it coming, with greed as boundless as the ocean. Anyway, Ana, you didn't come over just to check up on me, did you? As the bride-to-be, I'm surprised Herman let you out so late at night." Anastasia smiled and said, "I came to deliver your wedding invitation. And of course, you're going to be my bridesmaid. Here's a little something for you."

Monica opened the gift with delight. "Ana, this is too much! The latest iPhone and a pink pearl necklace? You're spoiling me!"

"One of a kind, for a one-of-a-kind friend," Anastasia said with a smile. "You deserve it."

Monica hugged Anastasia tightly. "I'm hitching my wagon to a star with you, Ana. Remember me when you're living the high life."

Anastasia laughed. "Oh come on, as if you're short on cash?"

"A girl can never have enough," Monica quipped. "I don't make nearly as much in a year as what your hubby probably spends on a night out. By the way, have you picked out your wedding dress yet?"

"It's being custom-made as we speak," Anastasia replied. "Herman hired an internationally renowned designer, Armani, to create it."

"An Armani wedding gown? That's the stuff of dreams, Ana. Herman really knows how to treat you," Monica said. "I can't wait for the big day."

"And what about you? You've been practically glued to Jason lately. Any sparks flying?"

"He's too old for me," Monica shook her head. "I'm not interested in guys over 22. Men hit their prime at 20, give or take a few years. Women, on the other hand, are in their prime at any age. I've got to think about the future, you know." Anastasia teased her, "You talk a big game. Someone might get the wrong idea, thinking you're a seasoned veteran when you're really just a rookie."

Monica shrugged. "I may not have tasted the bacon, but I've seen the pig run."

"Just be careful," Anastasia cautioned. "When you're out there chatting up the opposite sex, mind your words. Comments like today's could give people the wrong impression, and things can sour quickly."

If Monica appeared too playful, others might not take her seriously and just see her as a fling.

Monica waved it off, "Whatever happens, happens. It's all about fate."

"Don't be so rigid about age. Your love life will blossom," Anastasia encouraged. "Aside from his age, Jason doesn't have any other drawbacks, does he?"

Monica pondered for a moment, "Well, except for being a bit older and perhaps a tad tightfisted with money, he's pretty decent. Sharp as a tack on the job, responsible too. Last time, he nearly got his head smashed by a falling flowerpot while trying to save a colleague." "Then you should give it a shot. Loosen up your age restrictions a bit. Jason looks fit; he'll probably keep you happy."