The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 494

Herman mused with a trace of irony, "The Browns sure are ambitious."

Years of navigating the cutthroat business world had honed Herman's instincts; the Browns' subtle maneuvers were transparent to him.

"Boss," Dailey said, worry etched on his face, "Uncle suggested Joseph rejoin the Salstrom clan. If he marries into the Browns after that, it's obvious he's after your position. Are you really okay with Joseph coming back to the Salstroms? After that last showdown at the family hall, those old timers were definitely swayed by Joseph. If he gets back into the family, he'll be a ticking time bomb."

Herman's expression turned icy. "Then we'll cut off his escape routes. Keep a close eye on the Browns."

Dailey looked puzzled. "Boss, are you going to make a move against the Browns?"

Herman's voice carried a deep meaning. "Everything comes with a price."

If Julie hadn't used Granny Anita as a pawn, she wouldn't have cast doubt on Anastasia's unborn child, and they wouldn't be in this mess.

At that moment, Herman could barely contain his desire to tear Julie to shreds.

The Browns had outlived their usefulness.

As Dailey's car idled at a downtown intersection waiting for the light, Herman's gaze fell on a familiar figure in the square.

Anastasia.

Even amidst the bustling crowd, he recognized her instantly.

His calm façade masked an inner storm, but he steeled himself, not letting his emotions show. He allowed himself to greedily watch her retreating back for just a moment longer.

Anastasia, alongside Gianna, parked their car and headed toward the mall. Just a few steps in, she felt a piercing gaze on her. As if by instinct, she turned sharply, her eyes scanning the crowd, landing on a black sedan across the street.

Seeing Herman's car, Anastasia's heart ached, and she stumbled forward involuntarily. She knew he was in there, watching her.

The car window obscured her view, but she felt it in her bones—Herman was there.

The light turned green, and Dailey drove off. As the car disappeared into the traffic, Anastasia's gaze lingered before fading.

"Anastasia, come on, what are you staring at?" Gianna asked, puzzled.

Anastasia pulled her gaze back, suppressing the pain in her heart. "Nothing. Let's go."