In Chapter 33 of The Bond Between Us novel, the narrative takes a riveting turn, plunging readers deeper into the intricacies of Anastasia and Herman's evolving relationship. As the couple grapples with the shocking revelation of their shared past, the town of Riverdale becomes a backdrop for both confrontations and moments of quiet introspection.
Chapter 33 opens with Anastasia attempting to piece together the fragments of her forgotten memories, haunted by the striking resemblance of their daughter to a past she never knew she had. The quaint charm of Riverdale transforms into a landscape of uncertainty as Herman, determined to unearth the truth, confronts Anastasia with questions that demand answers.
Monica consoled Salma. "Hey, don't beat yourself up, Salma. You were just looking out for Anastasia."
Looking towards the living room, she muttered, "Maybe destiny thought Anastasia got the short end of the stick these past years, so it threw her this marriage as a way to make up for the bad luck."
Salma replied, "Herman seems like a pretty good catch."
Monica hadn't filled Salma in on Herman's real identity. Since Anastasia and Herman were still sleeping in separate beds, spilling the beans would backfire. Knowing Anastasia, she would march straight to city hall and file for divorce.
However, if they fell in love, the tides could turn.
Lunch was a feast, all hand-made by Anastasia with a little help from Herman.
Everyone gathered around the table, and Anastasia cheerfully greeted everyone, "Hope you're all starving. Dig in! Ms. Katelyn, Herman mentioned you're into light dishes. These are pretty mild and should be up your alley."
"Absolutely perfect." Katelyn chuckled, her eyes sweeping over Anastasia and Herman. Her words carried a double meaning.
Not only was the food just right, but her daughter-in-law was also just what she hoped for.
Anastasia didn't catch the subtext, but Monica did. It seemed Katelyn was quite pleased with her new daughter-in-law.
With the mother-in-law hurdle cleared, the rest should be smooth sailing.
Monica felt a bit relieved then presented a gift with a smile. "Ana, here's a little something for your wedding. May you grow old together and have kids soon."
"Monica, you're too kind." Anastasia took the gift, smiling faintly. "Thank you."
Katelyn added, "Well, you're married now. Time to start thinking about kids. You bounce back quicker when you're young, right Salma?"
Salma, considering the occasion, agreed, "It's a good time to start planning."
When she heard the blessing to have children soon, Anastasia blushed. Seeing both elders pressuring her, she stole a glance at Herman.
Herman stated, "As for having kids, let's just go with the flow."
With Herman's comment, the topic was dropped. If a man didn’t want kids, it could mean he was not ready to take on a family, or he wasn't prepared to spend his life with his wife and build a complete family.
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