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.”
Meeting someone and really knowing them—there was a big difference.
If Ana and Rowan were close, or if there was any hidden connection, Rowan’s confession and his claim that Autumn was behind it all would look suspicious—like he was covering for someone. The whole story would fall apart.
Mr. Walker pressed, “If there’s bad blood, why did Rowan save Ana?”
Herman paused, letting the question hang. “Maybe it was just a man’s instinct to do 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’ll get him the best lawyers I can find and defend him with everything I’ve got.”
The message was clear: Herman wasn’t just fighting for Ana—he’d go to bat for Rowan too.
Mr. Walker could tell Herman knew more than he was letting on. But instead of using it to bargain for himself or the Salstroms, Herman played it straight. That was something Mr. Walker hadn’t expected.
Just then, Mr. Walker’s phone rang. It was Autumn.

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)
Author pls Pls don't separate Ana and Herman once again because of Sandy. There must be an ending to Ana's sufferings!...
Yes yes yes!!! Thank you!!!...
How comes the twists are becoming uninteresting and unrealistic? Readers will prefer cleaner straight happy endings. Please don't go far beyond otherwise readers will lose interest. Time to end the story like we want it to be....
Please give us a happy ending for Anastasia and Herman with Pattie recognized as Herman's daughter, thank you!!!...
Pls update. This novel is really good....