The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Cynthia patted her chest confidently, "No one has a clue. I swiped it on the sly. Who's gonna know what I did with it?" "That's a relief."

Gianna felt a wave of satisfaction. Even though Herman and Anastasia were tying the knot, the thought that they were completely unaware that their real daughter was right under their noses-and she alone knew-made Gianna giddy with joy. Secretly, Gianna hoped Herman would never uncover this truth.

...

At Southridge Estates.

After another round of acupuncture, Tavon was showing some improvement; he could speak again, though it was still a struggle. Every word took effort.

Watching Salma bustle around, taking care of him, Tavon felt a pang of guilt, "Salma, I've wronged you. After everything I've done, you're still so good to me."

It took him ages to get those words out.

"Cut it out with the guilt trip. I guess I drew the short straw getting stuck with you," Salma joked as she massaged his legs. "Just wait until you're all better. I won't be waiting on you hand and foot then."

"Salma, once I'm back on my feet, I'll divorce Ashley. I mean it this time. I want to marry you." Tavon knew his recovery was all thanks to Salma and Anastasia.

"Forget it," Salma brushed off the comment. "Sure, Ashley can be a nightmare, but she's genuinely devoted to you. She's been there through thick and thin, Tavon. You're lucky, ending up with two women who truly care for you. Most folks don't even get one. I'm looking after you for one reason only-you're Ana's dad."

Salma had taken Tavon back with no romantic expectations. She knew full well that she and Ashley had both drawn the short end of the stick with a selfish man.

The thought of Ashley made Tavon frown, "Ashley's got her family, the Stantons, in her heart. They've been trying to control the Mortons for decades, always undermining us. I've had to tiptoe around the Stanton family's whims. Salma, I've always wanted to expand Morton Enterprises, to make it great without bowing to anyone."

"Well, you've got your wish now," Salma said, taking a break from the massage to look at Tavon lounging on the chair. "Ana says Morton Enterprises is doing well lately. Your youngest, she's got a knack for business and quite the ambition to boot."

"Sandy?" Tavon was puzzled but then chuckled, "What does Sandy know about running a business? She's clueless."

Salma wasn't sure about Sandy's business skills; she was only going by what Anastasia had told her.

"Do you want to get some sun outside?" Salma offered.

"I can catch some rays right here, no trouble at all." Tavon was now worried about Salma overexerting herself, "Where's Ana?"

"She got dragged out by the mother-in-law bright and early. Her wedding gown's ready for a fitting. If it's not perfect, they'll need to make alterations." Salma explained, "With the wedding so close, there's a ton to do. Honestly, it's embarrassing that we, as Ana's parents, can't lift a finger to help. It's all being handled by her future in-laws."

"With the Salstrom's reputation and social standing, we shouldn't worry too much. They're meticulous about everything, from the guest list to the wedding essentials. No skimping allowed," Tavon said with a hint of pride. "Once Ana marries into the Salstrom family, she'll be set for life. I've always said, as long as Herman's heart is with Ana, she can't go wrong."

Salma rolled her eyes at his boastful tone, "Don't get any ideas about Ana. You're a mess yourself, and yet you can't sit still. Morton Enterprises is in your son's hands now; you've got nothing."

"The company is mine. That little rascal thinks he can outsmart me? Unless I say so, it'll never be his," Tavon snorted, "Morton Enterprises is meant for Ana."

Salma wasn't taking any of it seriously, "You rest here; I'm going to take a break."

As Salma stepped out of the treatment room, she saw James rushing upstairs in a hurry.

Holding Tavon's latest lab reports, James found Herman in the study, "Herman, take a look at this. Thomas Stanton's stroke-it was caused by poisoning."noveldrama