The Bound Between Us

Chapter 857

Tavon was on edge.

Salma had put extra effort into her outfit that morning-hair done, makeup perfect, floral dress swishing as she left for her date with that older guy. Tavon was practically fuming.

Anastasia barely got a word out before Tavon stormed out.

As soon as he left, Herman wandered downstairs, glancing around the unusually quiet living room. "Why's it so dead in here? Where's your mom and dad?"

"My mom's out on a date. Dad's off playing detective, probably tailing her," Anastasia said, grinning. "Honestly, it's about time Mom got to have some fun for once."

She'd never hoped her parents would get back together-never even wanted it. Having a mom who was finally happy and clear-headed? That was enough for her.

Herman came up behind Anastasia and gave her shoulders a quick squeeze. "You're not worried they'll get into it?"

"They're both getting up there. I mean, surely they wouldn't make a scene at their age... right?" Anastasia replied, though her confidence wavered.

Out at the park, a bunch of retirees-led by old George-were dancing under a big oak tree to some crackly jazz from a Bluetooth speaker. These guys had nothing but time now, so they'd meet up, dance, chat, and swap stories to keep the loneliness at bay.

Salma had been taking good care of herself lately, dropping by Monica's Beauty Bar every so often. All that pampering showed-she looked bright and confident, and today she was positively glowing.

Adam, sixty and retired from the auto plant, was a widower with two grown kids who were always busy. He mostly kept to himself, picking up odd jobs and, lately, learning to dance. He was on the shorter side, a little round in the middle, with a warm, easygoing face and a knack for making people laugh.

last few months. When Adam finally told her how he felt, Salma realized she liked him too. So now, there they were, slow- dancing, both looking happier than they'd been in ages. The whole

off to the side on a bench, glaring at the scene. The

them, hugging up like teenagers. Honestly.

take it anymore. He got up and marched over, pulling Salma out of Adam's arms. "Knock it off. Have

sputtered out. Heads turned. All eyes

blinked. "Salma, who's

"Calling her Salma like you're twenty years old. Don't

here. You're the only one making a

hugging and

"Who I spend time with is my business, not yours." She turned to Adam, explaining, "This is my daughter's father. My

ex-husband-just her

offered a patient smile. "Buddy, we're all adults here. No

you. Salma, I'm just trying to make sure you don't get

it was you. You cost me over

Adam close behind, but Tavon blocked his path.

one to back off. She told me about you. Guys like

firm

here they were caught up in a love triangle straight out of a

which is why she