The Bound Between Us

Chapter 1006

Herman grinned and gave Anastasia's nose a playful tap, his gaze soft and full of affection. "That's the kind of thing Autumn's probably losing sleep over right now."

Anastasia lifted an eyebrow. "You think even Autumn herself isn't sure? If that baby really is Mr. Walker's, there's no way she'll let go of that lifeline. A child born late in life-Mr. Walker's bound to treasure it."

If that turned out to be true, all their scheming would be for nothing.

Anastasia still hadn't forgiven Autumn for hiring thugs to humiliate her. Even though nothing actually happened, Anastasia had no intention of letting that grudge go.

Herman fell quiet, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Looks like we'll just have to take a gamble."

Mr. Walker's career was on the rise. To shake his position would mean a fight where everyone got hurt-if it was even possible at all.

Mr. Walker didn't have any obvious weaknesses. He wasn't greedy, he kept his nose clean, and everyone seemed to genuinely respect him.

Honestly, Herman admired that. The world could use more honest officials who actually did the right thing for people.

Even when Autumn helped Julie Brown overturn her conviction, she'd done everything by the book. The procedures were spotless-no one could pick out a single flaw.

When Asher got arrested, the trouble never touched Anastasia. Herman knew Autumn was being cautious as well.

Now it was just a matter of chance. Autumn was betting too: if the baby was Mr. Walker's, she'd win. If not, she'd be the one to face his fury.

That night at dinner-

but it was a small, exclusive group-just four people. Mr. Walker brought along a

only woman

on his wife, so having Anastasia there felt totally

bunch of lonely guys at the table, and you've got

as they sat down. He

the side-I wouldn't dare bring her out in public. Mr.

Walker chuckled. "That's men for you. I get

heard plenty about

with a practiced smile. "Since we've got a

how to play the game-never taking advantage, no matter how polite

word, Anastasia smiled. “Mr. Jarod, you're flattering me. Honestly, I think Mr. Walker should

but stayed quiet. He trusted Anastasia

could play the part of the doting husband; it was

back. "Anastasia, you go ahead. Women have their preferences

Walker, I'll pick something," Anastasia replied with a

to herself, quietly enjoying her food while the men talked business. Every now and then, she'd refill Herman's glass

s

they were, even at

and natural between them.