The Bound Between Us

Chapter 10

Herman parked the car at the hospital entrance, waiting as Anastasia helped Salma out. He hopped out of the car too, lending a hand to open the door. As Anastasia climbed in, he shielded her head with his hand to prevent her from bumping it

Salma saw all this, and her face broke into a satisfied smile.

Back in the driver’s seat, Herman said, “Anastasia, it’s one in the afternoon now. Your mom might be hungry. The doctor told us to feed her regularly. How about we grab a bite now?

Herman was really thoughtful, Anastasia hadn’t even thought about this.

“Sounds good, you decide.”

“Alright.”

Herman started the car, and half an hour later, they pulled up at a swanky restaurant.

Anastasia eyed the plush interior and whispered, “Isn’t this place gonna cost an arm and a leg?”

She had just bought a car, and money was tight. Besides, she usually ate at home to save money. When she did eat out, she’d eye the place first. If it looked fancy, she’d chicken out

this place fancy, but it was also in a prime Riverdale real estate, a chain restaurant, which meant it wouldn’t be

It’s our first formal meeting, our first date, so we can eat a bit fancy. You’ve already saved me wedding expenses, so don’t worry about the cost

there, and Herman had said his piece, so Anastasia didn’t protest. She helped Salma

headed upstairs. Anastasia was oblivious to the fact that

seated, Herman said, “Order whatever

a couple of waiters, but Herman

and said,

and hated to waste money. Even if her son–in–law was

Mom, I know.”

Anastasia wanted Salma to eat well. But when she saw the prices on the menu, she felt the urge

Anastasia’s reaction and guessed what she was thinking. “Let me

said, “How about we go somewhere else? This place is too

coupon, a gift from a client. We can get half off, and the restaurant will give us an invoice for

whispered in surprise, “Isn’t that like using the company’s money for free? Won’t

using company money for personal expenses.

was amused by Anastasia’s reaction. “I was just joking with you, no need to