The Bound Between Us

Chapter 828

They were like dry tinder-one spark, and everything ignited.

Their rhythm was effortless, their bodies moving together with a familiarity that broke through every last bit of hesitation. Herman laced his fingers through hers, pinning her hands gently above her head as he kissed her, hungry and

unrestrained.

Outside, the moon was stunning, bathing the world in a pale, silvery light.

Maybe it was the magic of the moon, or maybe it was her, drawing out something raw and primal in him. Or maybe it was Rowan's lingering jealousy pushing Herman to take what was his.

Strength met grace as they moved together, bodies rising and falling beneath the moonlight...

For Anastasia, it was like drifting on the surface of the sea-weightless, then suddenly plunging deep. The breeze outside whispered, waves surging and breaking until she was swept up in a rush of sensation.

Eventually, the waves quieted and everything stilled.

Anastasia clung to Herman's strong back, gazing at the moon through the window. The night air was cool, and after all that wildness, the calm felt precious. Her breath was shaky at first, but soon it evened out, slow and peaceful.

Herman eased off, utterly worn out, and fell asleep beside her.

But Anastasia couldn't sleep. She pressed up against his back, closed her eyes, and breathed in his scent. That deep sense of comfort she'd missed so much

washed over her again.

The next morning.

put on a pot of porridge, laid out two small plates of pickles, some stir-fried potatoes, and a

of bed. He spotted a neatly folded change of clothes waiting for him on

cozy loungewear, ran a hand through his

sight that greeted him felt

with two plates in hand and flashed him a smile. “Morning! Breakfast is ready.

scene meshed with a fuzzy memory in his mind. Herman blurted out, "Didn't we used to eat porridge and carrots

a little leap-he

grinned. "Yeah,

two

one, and with

everything, we had to

h every

saving up for our

She wanted to walk that path with Herman all

and tasted the porridge—a godsend after a

couldn't

Anastasia said. "Sit down and eat with me.

Anastasia's heart soared. "Deal! And from now on, I'll keep track

Herman finished his bowl and immediately

for another helping, then another of him quietly eating, and sent them

emoji, then sent back a photo of herself having breakfast with Jason at