The Bound Between Us

Herman's voice was calm—not accusing, but not backing down either. He followed Mr. Walker's lead, echoing his words without picking a fight or giving ground.

Mr. Walker felt a wave of awkwardness. He'd spent over twenty years in politics, dealing with every kind of person-sly veterans, loudmouths, egomaniacs. But Herman was a mystery he couldn't crack.

Forcing a smile, he said, "Of course, of course. That's my responsibility."

The second the words left his mouth, regret hit him hard. He realized too late— this was exactly what Herman had been waiting for.

Before Mr. Walker could say more, Herman jumped in, cutting him off. "I've always trusted your character, Mr. Walker. You're fair, honest, by-the-book-never one to play favorites. My wife was almost assaulted. She still has nightmares, people gossip and point fingers, and her reputation is in tatters. Now, we're relying on you to clear her name."

Every word landed with weight. Herman wasn't just making a request-he was laying down his resolve.

Mr. Walker was left speechless. He'd just walked into a trap of his own making. Herman wasn't letting up—he was pushing Mr. Walker into a corner. Was he really expected to let his own wife go to jail for this?

He sat in silence, his face a storm of emotions. He picked up his coffee-cold now —took a sip, and grimaced at the bitterness.

With a loaded look, he said, "You know, the younger generation is full of surprises."

"All thanks to your guidance, Mr. Walker." Herman leaned back against the sofa,

all business. "I just want justice for my wife, no matter what it takes."

Mr. Walker's face clouded over, but only for a moment. He quickly gathered himself. "Ana and Rowan-do they know each other?"

"They've met," Herman replied, his tone neutral. "Rowan's brother, Asher, and I have some history. So yes, we've crossed paths."

and really knowing

connection, Rowan's confession and his claim that Autumn

"If there's bad blood,

the right thing. If you want details, you'll have to ask Rowan. But whatever his reasons, he saved my wife. Even if he's guilty of something else, I'm grateful. I’I get him the best lawyers I can find and defend him with everything

clear: Herman wasn't just fighting for

instead of using it to bargain for himself

then, Mr. Walker's phone

in front of Herman. "Autumn, what's

not home? Where are you?" Autumn sounded uneasy, not

soon," Mr. Walker said, glancing at

Herman's name, Autumn's

replied softly. "Come

up

chuckled and turned to Herman. "It's nice having someone waiting

home. Makes life feel warmer, you

"Absolutely. Having someone who

all the

agreed. Welf,

Keep

Thanks for

wait for

belongs to s