The Bound Between Us

Chapter 512

**What luck, to have captured his heart. A heart so pure and true.**

Herman gazed at her, the moonlight spilling through the window, casting a hazy glow that added to her enigmatic beauty. Anastasia's features were exquisite, stunning from any angle, like a living work of art. He loved her skin, her soul, her everything. His hand caressed her cheek, his voice a rich baritone, "Before you, I wasn't truly alive, Anastasia..."

His whisper was a seductive spell. She smiled brightly, stood up on the window seat, her arms encircling his neck, and now she leaned down to kiss him. Herman effortlessly lifted her from the window seat, their passionate kiss resuming unfinished business as they shed that final layer of clothing.

Their fervent skin pressed close, he laid her gently on the soft bed, their fingers intertwined, bodies entangled, a dance of flesh and strength too compelling to resist. He missed her deeply, every day and night, a longing so intense it was almost an affliction, healed only by her touch. Anastasia looked up at the man above her, her hands clinging to his muscular back, and in that moment, her heartache was completely cured. As long as he was in this world, life was worth living.

After their tender embrace, the world returned to silence, their fingers still interlocked, holding each other close, hearts racing, not yet calmed. A tear of overjoyed emotion graced Anastasia's eye. She had thought lying in his arms again was a luxury she could no longer afford. Fearing this was all a dream, that he'd vanish upon waking, Anastasia clung to him, seeking reassurance. He could feel her unease. Herman kissed her neck, his voice deep and soothing, "I've always been here, I'll always be your man, in this life and beyond."

seeking shelter. She had been too strong for too long, never allowing a moment's vulnerability, but now, she was simply a woman in need of her

she whispered, weary

now, I'm here

she felt at peace, and for the first time since

of the night before like a distant dream. The room was empty, save

about her overnight absence. Anastasia scrambled for her clothes, then remembered she had left in

Herman entered, casual wear on, and with a new outfit for her in hand, "You're awake. These are from Nelson, your size. Try them, see if they look good. I've already called your mom, told her

Salma 'mom,' in his heart, Anastasia was still his wife,

tightened. "How did she react? Knowing I'm with