The Bound Between Us

Anastasia looked up at him. "So, what did he say to you?"

"He offered us all sorts of things-some out in the open, some not. Basically, if we let this slide, he'll make sure the Salstrom family is always taken care of," Herman said. "Mr. Walker knows the score. Even if it costs him his future, he'll go all out to protect Autumn."

Mr. Walker hadn't spelled it out, but the message was crystal clear.

Most people would've jumped at the chance, used it as leverage, and secured themselves a cushy life, free from worry.

But Mr. Walker wasn't dealing with just anyone he was dealing with Herman.

Anastasia pressed, "You didn't agree, did you?"

“No.” Herman stroked her cheek, gentle and sure. “I promised I'd stand up for you. I meant every word."

Instead of looking reassured, Anastasia sighed, her voice soft and heavy. "If this were ten years ago, back when I was seventeen or eighteen, I'd have charged in, headstrong and fearless, all for the sake of justice. But now, Herman, do you really think justice is worth everything?"

met her eyes,

up, turning to face him. "Babe, I keep thinking-even if Autumn pays for what she did, then what? Mr. Walker will come after us. The Salstrom family would be thrown

matter what they

sense of justice? If we have this over Mr. Walker, we could get so much more. He'd have to watch over the Salstrom family, and Autumn would be stuck, unable to do a thing about it.

someone. It doesn't always have to be through the

Walker. Not using it

use Mr. Walker to keep Autumn in

assault. With Mr. Walker pulling strings, how

way. If Autumn claims she's pregnant, she could get probation. With maternity leave and breastfeeding, she might never spend a day

word, Mr. Walker could shut down Elysian Technologies. Just look at

had thought of everything-except her own feelings,

into his arms,

family relying on them, kids and parents both. They couldn't afford to act on

pointless fight, or Herman sacrificing everything for