The Bound Between Us

Chapter 13

“He had some stuff to deal with, so he left early,” Herman said, starting the car. I’ll drop you guys off”

Herman drove Anastasia and her mom back to their apartment, which was his first–time visiting Anastasia’s place. The apartment was tiny with only one bedroom. The living room had a bed separated by curtains. Despite its small size, it was very tidy Clearly, Anastasia was sleeping on the bed in the living room, leaving the room to her mother. Rent was pretty steep in Riverdale, and the mother and daughter’s income were just enough to scrape by Herman thought about the 50 grand Anastasia had given him for the car. That must have taken her quite a while to save up. To Herman, 50 grand wasn’t a big deal, but for Anastasia, it was a result of scrimping and saving for a long time.

Seeing Herman inspecting their apartment, Anastasia felt a bit embarrassed. “We only have water at home. Care for a drink?”

They didn’t even have coffee at home, and she didn’t usually drink coffee either.

The apartment was so small that there was no dining room. Anastasia usually ate at the coffee table in the living room. Compared to Herman’s three bedroom apartment, the difference was huge, and Anastasia naturally felt a bit awkward.

Herman didn’t show any sign of dissatisfaction and sat down on the sofa. “Sure.”

today. Why

surprise. “Mom, what

from Salma’s words that she

if I move out now. I’ll just stay here I’m an old lady. I won’t bother you two,” Salma said, looking at Herman with a smile.

too. His intention was enough. Anastasia and Herman had just gotten married and didn’t have an emotional foundation yet. It wouldn’t be appropriate if she moved in with them. As an elder, she

said, “Mom, that’s not right. Your health is not good. What if there’s no one to take care of

it would save some rent. As for the rent you’ve already paid, I’ll talk to the landlord to see if we can get a refund. We

the mother and daughter were very thrifty. The only way to convince Salma

not far from your place. If anything happens, I can just call you. Ana, come on. Pack your things

Herman were able to persuade Salma who insisted that Anastasia move

the new place was only a 20–minute drive away. So

and organizing everything, it was already evening. She chose the bedroom on the left side of the living room,