The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 559

Cynthia's blunt question caught Salma off-guard. In the past, she would've just laughed it off and changed the subject.

But this time, Salma was straightforward. "Yeah, I'm still not over what happened last time."

Cynthia was momentarily speechless.

"Hey sis," Cynthia said, gripping Salma's hand earnestly, "You gotta promise you won't scare me like that. You've never been one to hold grudges. Oh, by the way, is Mr. Salstrom around? Heard he and Ana are planning a wedding. Sounds dreamy."

"He's in the den, chatting with Dr. James," Salma replied. "We really lucked out with him; he's head over heels for Ana. You know the saying, 'What's meant to be will always find a way.'"

Cynthia, green with envy, thought to herself, 'Show off much? So you snagged a rich son-in-law. Big deal.'

Despite her inner turmoil, Cynthia managed to say with feigned enthusiasm, "You're absolutely right, sis. That's just how it goes."

Cynthia kept the conversation going, showing no signs of leaving. As they talked, the sky grew darker, and rain began to fall.

Salma, ever the gracious host, invited her to stay for dinner. Cynthia accepted without hesitation, "Sure, it's been ages since we caught up. Chatting with you eases my mind."

Feeling a bit awkward and knowing Tavon's medicinal bath was due, Salma excused herself, "I need to check on Tavon in the treatment room. Make yourself at home, sis."

"Don't mind me, I'm as comfy here as I am in my own house," Cynthia replied, showing no hint of formality.

Once Salma left, Cynthia casually made her way to the den.

Herman sat on the couch, a half-smoked cigarette in hand. He took a drag, but quickly lost interest and stubbed it out in the ashtray.

Cynthia's eyes lit up at the sight of the cigarette butt—a perfect sample.

Herman and his company showed no signs of leaving, so Cynthia had to wait.

James, who knew his way around the streets, was a potential source of information about Dailey's recent run-ins.

"Herman, I have no idea how many people you've ticked off," James said. "But you don't have to go snake hunting yourself."

"This is no ordinary snake," Herman replied gravely. "I haven't quite figured out their agenda yet."

James shifted the conversation, "You've got your wedding in September, less than four months away. You should focus more on that."