The Bound Between Us

Anastasia had a knack for knowing what Jarod liked and had everything set up just right. Eight gorgeous women, each with their own special allure: the elegant type, the girl-next-door, the gentle beauty, and the cold, mysterious one.

Jarod's eyes sparkled with satisfaction. "Ms. Anastasia, you certainly know how to cater to my tastes. But..."

"But what?" Anastasia wondered if she'd missed something.

Jarod leaned back on the couch, adjusting his glasses with a scholarly air. "After seeing someone like you, Ms. Anastasia, how could these ordinary beauties even compare?"

He glanced at Nelson and the PR women Anastasia had brought along, clearly wanting her to send them away.

"Ms. Anastasia, I'd like to discuss the South Bay project with you privately."

Anastasia hesitated, but Nelson chimed in, "Mr. Jarod, our lady here has just taken over the company. I'm more familiar with the South Bay Project..."

Nelson was worried for Anastasia, wanting to stay and protect her.

Jarod sneered, "What's this? Has Elysian Technologies really changed hands, letting a mere assistant call the shots?"

The words stung, and Anastasia sensed Jarod's irritation.

surely you're joking," Anastasia said, signaling Nelson

Nelson was concerned. "Ma'am..."

everyone out," Anastasia insisted with a

but finally ushered everyone out, leaving the large room

flicker of fear; Jarod's reputation as a womanizer

unease and poured a glass of whiskey, bringing it over to her. "Ms. Anastasia, if you're afraid of me, why step into the business world? This is a man's game, and a beauty like you should be enjoying

courage. The whiskey was bitter, but it

be the woman behind him. Now that he's gone, I'll hold up this family and this company until he

known many women, but I've

They were all after his wealth, easily appeased with designer bags and

me. Good women are nurtured

Technologies was now under Anastasia's name.

trusted Anastasia with everything, while

love for Anastasia that made her love

sat down, pouring another drink, and raised

could have the honor of

Marrying a virtuous woman like you would surely bring prosperity to the Denton family for generations. I'm