The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

No matter if she could see Tavon or not, Salma felt she had to make the trip. Her mind just wouldn't settle otherwise.

Even if there were no lingering feelings, they had shared something special in their youth. And when Anastasia had hit rock bottom the last time, Tavon hadn't abandoned her. That brought Salma some comfort. Anastasia had booked Salma a flight for the next day. With Pattie having school and Anastasia's own commitments, Salma would have to go alone.

The next morning, after dropping Pattie off at school, Anastasia drove Salma to the airport.

"Mom, call me as soon as you get there if anything comes up, okay?"

"Sure thing, honey. And take care of yourself too. Don't overdo it. The seasons are changing, so make sure Pattie dresses warmly. We don't want her catching a cold." ""I will."

As boarding time approached, Salma headed through security with her luggage.

After seeing her mom off, Anastasia hailed a cab back home, calling Monica on the way. Her minivan had broken down and was now at the mechanic's, thanks to Monica's help.

Monica, already bustling about in her bakery, laughed when she picked up. "I've fronted the repair costs, Ana. I thought Jason could've fixed it. Turns out he's pretty useless with tools. I helped crack a case for him for free, and he didn't even buy me a latte. Now he wants me at the station this afternoon to sniff out more problems... Honestly, Ana, Jason's taking me for granted, treating me like a bloodhound or something..."

Anastasia just listened, chuckling as Monica ranted about Jason for a good ten minutes. She had no idea Jason had been looking for her at the Night Market that evening.

After Monica finished venting, Anastasia teased her while pulling up to the mechanic's. "You should ask Jason for a salary with that keen nose of yours. Who knows, the police force might make an exception and hire you full-time. You'd have job security then." Monica's laughter spilled through the phone. "Oh, shut it. Am I getting paid in cash or dog treats?"

"Not sure about the cash, but I've been on the receiving end of plenty of dog treats on this ride. Are you sure you weren't just showering me with them? You and Jason have such chemistry; don't miss out." "Enough already. I could never go for a stiff, boring guy like that. I'd sooner become a nun than fall for someone like Jason."

"We'll see about that," Anastasia chuckled. "I've got my car now, and thanks for covering the repairs. I owe you a latte. I won't be shy about it; after all, I could use a leg-up from a big shot like you." "That's the spirit. Don't beat around the bush with me. My money's your money." Monica then prodded, "You and Herman have been sneaking around for so long. Hasn't he given you a title or some cash?" "He has, but I didn't take it." Anastasia felt that taking Herman's money would change things. She joked, "I don't like leaning on a man. I prefer leaning on women."

Monica laughed. "Sure, but when you're cozying up to Herman, you never think of me. You always choose him over your friends."

This "leaning" wasn't the literal kind.

Conversations with Monica always lifted Anastasia's spirits, leaving her feeling cheerful and relaxed.

A good friend in this life is a treasure indeed.

After picking up her car, Anastasia left the mechanic's and headed to the market for supplies. On her way back, she encountered Katelyn, looking like a lost soul on the sidewalk, nearly stepping into traffic. Anastasia quickly parked and ran over. "Mom... I mean, Auntie!"

She corrected herself in time, "Auntie, are you okay?"noveldrama

Katelyn, surprised to see Anastasia, had mixed emotions. "I'm fine. What are you doing here?"

"I was just passing by after picking up some stock." Noticing Katelyn's scraped ankle, Anastasia offered, "If you don't mind, hop in the car. That scrape needs attention, or it might get infected."

Katelyn, looking at Anastasia, who had changed so much, got into the car as if possessed.

Fifteen minutes later, Anastasia pulled up in front of a drugstore, went in to buy some ointment, and dressed Katelyn's wound, saying, "Auntie, let me drive you home."

She could tell Katelyn was not in the right frame of mind and worried something might happen.

Katelyn shook her head. "I don't want to go back. Ana, just drive me around for a bit."

After a moment's hesitation, Anastasia agreed. "Okay."

As they drove around, Katelyn suddenly asked, "You and Herman... are you still together?"