The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Maddie playfully poked at Stacy's sides, teasing her, "After tonight, you're officially gonna be Mrs. Salstrom. I've got to savor this last night of freedom with you." Stacy squirmed and giggled, "Alright, alright, knock it off!"

With a magician's flair, Maddie produced a small box from her palm, "Stacy, a little wedding present."

Stacy's eyes widened with surprise, "What's this?"

"Just open it," Maddie said with a smile.

Inside the box was a delicate, leaf-shaped necklace.

"It's so precious," Stacy said, clearly touched, "Maddie, you're too good to me."

"Well, of course!" Maddie boasted, "I intend to spoil you rotten, right after Herman, of course. Now, try it on."

Stacy clasped the necklace around her neck, her pale skin complementing its beauty.

"Maddie, thank you," Stacy said, deeply moved, reaching out for a hug, "I'm so grateful for your constant support."

Since her fallout with Herman, Stacy had seen changes in her social circle. Even Lauren Mills had kept her distance.

But Maddie had been a constant presence.

Hugging Stacy, Maddie patted her back and said, "Stacy, go be wildly happy."

"You too," Stacy replied.

That night, they shared countless secrets and stories, talking about everything from their college days to marriage and kids.

Eventually, Stacy drifted off to sleep.

The next day dawned.

The makeup artist arrived early to prepare Stacy for her big day. The wedding of Elysian Technologies' mogul was a hot ticket, with guests and reporters already swarming the venue for scoops. Collin Witt found himself roped into being a groomsman, a position he'd jokingly claimed he was duped into buying.noveldrama

Herman, dressed in a crisp white tuxedo, looked dashing and debonair.

Collin couldn't help but rib, "We're both guys here, you've got to leave some charm for the rest of us!"

Flynn chuckled, "It was your idea to be a groomsman. You trying to compete with Herman in the looks department? You're just setting yourself up for failure."

While everyone looked sharp in their suits, Herman wore his with a regal air that left Collin feeling decidedly outclassed.

The wedding took place at Riverdale's grandest hotel. The guests were influential figures from all over the industry.

Even the distant relatives of the Salstrom clan showed up, pragmatic as ever, leaving past disputes in the family chapel behind them.

On this joyous day, no one dared to bring up the memory of Granny Anita.

As the auspicious hour approached, Herman led his band of groomsmen to Southridge Estates to fetch his bride.

The media covered every moment, broadcasting live, Herman's dazzling appearance stirring envy for Stacy.

It's said that a catch like Herman comes once in a hundred years.

The ceremony was set for noon. Cynthia and Salma, being close as sisters, naturally made their way to the wedding too.

Despite any inner turmoil, they wouldn't miss this celebration for the world, eager to mingle with the crème de la crème of high society. Before leaving, Cynthia peeked into Gianna's room, "Gianna, I'm heading out. Order some takeout if you're hungry, okay?"

Gianna sat alone on the window seat, murmuring to herself, "Today's his wedding day. He's marrying Stacy."

"Gianna," Cynthia said, a hint of worry in her voice as she approached, "Honey, I have to go."

Suddenly, Gianna grabbed her mother's arm, "Mom, I can't stand to watch him marry Stacy. Why does she get to be the one?"

"There's nothing we can do about it now, sweetheart. By now, Herman's probably on his way to pick up his bride," Cynthia consoled her, "Fortunes can change. Just because she's marrying into the Salstrom family doesn't mean she's made it. Being a part of that world is no cakewalk."