The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Sandy always loved to put on a show, and Anastasia was more than willing to let her bask in the limelight.

As she casually sipped her coffee, Anastasia said, "I heard the Morton Group is getting into renewable energy. That's a pretty bold move."

With a polished smile, Sandy replied, "Oh, sis, that's way over my head. My brother runs the company. I just throw in a suggestion now and then. Big decisions like that? Definitely his call."

"True, the whole renewable energy thing seems a bit out of your usual league," Anastasia said, her tone sharpening as she locked eyes with Sandy.noveldrama

A flicker of panic crossed Sandy's mind. Did Anastasia know something?

The renewable energy plan was Herman's idea, after all.

Sandy hesitated, unsure of her next move, but Anastasia suddenly chuckled, "Did

I hit the nail on the head? I was just guessing."

Before Sandy could respond, Anastasia changed the topic, "Dad mentioned you've got a boyfriend now. How about inviting him over for dinner so we can meet him?"

Sandy's face changed immediately, and she stammered, "Sis, he's not around at the moment. Maybe another time, when we're more settled."

"Well, isn't that convenient?" Anastasia's skepticism was clear.

Sandy steadied herself, "Yeah, he had to head over to Riverdale a few days ago. Honestly, we're still figuring things out. When we're ready to tie the knot, you'll be the first to know."

"So, you're not quite official, but you're talking marriage? What are you hiding from me, Sandy?" Anastasia teased. "Now I'm really curious about the guy who's caught your eye."

"He's just an ordinary guy, not like your husband with all his talents," Sandy chuckled. "He's George, the son of our old family butler. He may not be a big shot, but he's kind, attentive, and gentle. Isn't that what every woman wants?"

Whether George was real or not, Anastasia could easily ask Tavon to find out.

If Sandy dared to mention him, then George must exist.

"Congratulations," Anastasia raised her glass with a smile, though she felt a twinge of disappointment deep down. Could it really not be the person she was looking for?

The waiter brought their food, and they continued their conversation, albeit sporadically.

Anastasia casually asked about Sandy's trip to a nearby village, and Sandy admitted, "I went there with my brother for some business."

Sandy answered every question but dodged the main issues.

Anastasia wasn't expecting the full truth from Sandy; she was just trying to rattle her, hoping she'd slip up.

After lunch, Sandy quickly made her excuses to leave, not wanting to remain under Anastasia's watchful eye any longer.

Anastasia stood by the restaurant entrance, watching as Sandy drove away.

Sandy glanced back through the rearview mirror at Anastasia slowly fading from view, exhaling in relief before calling Sean.

Once connected, Sandy first ensured Sean's surroundings were safe: "Is George there?"

Some conversations were best kept from Herman's ears.

Sean replied, "He just went into the police station. I'm outside waiting for him. Sis, you were right, he came

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here to check his records. Werksne

happening on your end? Did

Anastasia come to Willowbrook to find out about Herman? Does she know he's alive?"

"She's likely here for Herman," Sandy admitted. "She asked me a lot of questions,

none directly about Herman, but all circling around him."

Thank goodness Herman wasn't in Willowbrook, she thought, or keeping it a

secret would have been impossible.

Sean stood under the blazing sun, eyes on the police station, worry etched on his face, "Sis, the truth is bound to come out."

"Even the biggest fire can be put out eventually," Sandy resolved. "I'll head to Riverdale tomorrow."

"Sis, it's best if you stay put. Your presence with only raise suspicions. Work on Nicholas from your end. Once Anastasia leaves Willowbrook, we can coax Herman back,” Sean advised, though he didn't agree with Sandy's approach, he couldn't refuse to help in their little charade.

"Thanks, bro," Sandy said, appreciating the support.

After hanging up, Sean thought about lighting a cigarette but reconsidered, mindful of his health.

Sean's health was declining rapidly, he could feel it. More grey hairs had appeared lately, though he was only in his twenties. Premature graying was setting in.

He realized he wouldn't be able to look out for Sandy for much longer.