In Chapter 82 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 82 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.
Anastasia thought mentioning that she was married would dispel his interest in her. But Blake just laughed harder, "This is hilarious! I've toyed around with a lot of dames, but never a married one. Feels fresh; quite the thrill!" He was beyond creepy.
Anastasia's anger was like a simmering pot she had to keep a lid on since she couldn't afford the repercussions of letting it boil over. That was the rule of the jungle.
Forcing a smile, she said, "You're a real joker." She then turned to Everlee, "We'll chat about the jewelry design details some other day. I won't bug you guys any longer." If she couldn't fight back, she'd evade. But, as it turned out, she couldn't do that either.
"My beauty, you think you can just waltz out of here? That's adorable." Blake blocked her path, tapping his nose, "You’ve gotta pay the piper. You can leave, but play a game with me. If you win, you're free. If you lose, you leave with me."
Anastasia knew she was stuck. If she agreed, win or lose, she wouldn't get away.
Lauren was furious, "Blake, don't push it. She's my friend, and she's married. She's not one of us; she won't have any ulterior motives. We're just here for Everlee."
Blake signaled someone, and then two men escorted Lauren away.
"Ms. Lauren, let's move the party elsewhere."
"Sure, let's go."
Lauren was taken away. Of course, given Lauren's background, they wouldn't harm her. Anastasia didn't need to worry about her. She needed to worry about herself.
Anastasia’s heart was pounding as she watched the onlookers, but she tried her best to stay composed.
"You want to play a game? Then I'll set the stakes and rules."
Blake laughed, not phased at all, "No problem."
Anastasia glanced at the nearby dartboard and said, "Let's play that."
Blake grinned at the mention of darts, "Are you sure?"
Someone chimed in, "Blake's an ace at darts. No one here can beat him."
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