The Bound Between Us

Chapter 10

Herman parked the car at the hospital entrance, waiting as Anastasia helped Salma out. He hopped out of the car too, lending a hand to open the door. As Anastasia climbed in, he shielded her head with his hand to prevent her from bumping it

Salma saw all this, and her face broke into a satisfied smile.

Back in the driver’s seat, Herman said, “Anastasia, it’s one in the afternoon now. Your mom might be hungry. The doctor told us to feed her regularly. How about we grab a bite now? Content bel0ngs to Nôvel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

Herman was really thoughtful, Anastasia hadn’t even thought about this.

“Sounds good, you decide.”

“Alright.”

Herman started the car, and half an hour later, they pulled up at a swanky restaurant.

Anastasia eyed the plush interior and whispered, “Isn’t this place gonna cost an arm and a leg?”

She had just bought a car, and money was tight. Besides, she usually ate at home to save money. When she did eat out, she’d eye the place first. If it looked fancy, she’d chicken out

Not only was this place fancy, but it was also in a prime Riverdale real estate, a chain restaurant, which meant it wouldn’t be cheap.

Herman chuckled, “It’s okay to splurge once in a while. It’s our first formal meeting, our first date, so we can eat a bit fancy. You’ve already saved me wedding expenses, so don’t worry about the cost of this meal.”

They were already there, and Herman had said his piece, so Anastasia didn’t protest. She helped Salma inside.

Herman had a private room booked. The three of them headed upstairs. Anastasia was oblivious to the fact that this restaurant was owned by the Salstrom family.

Once seated, Herman said, “Order whatever you like.”

Each private room usually came with a couple of waiters, but Herman had them leave, fearing Anastasia would feel uncomfortable.

Salma looked around the posh room, tugged at Anastasia, and said, “Just order a few dishes. We can’t finish too much.”

She was worried about the cost and hated to waste money. Even if her son–in–law was treating them, Salma was still concerned.

Anastasia nodded, “Yeah, Mom, I know.”

Keeping the doctor’s advice in mind, Anastasia wanted Salma to eat well. But when she saw the prices on the menu, she felt the urge to grab Herman and bolt. This place was ridiculously pricey.

Herman noticed Anastasia’s reaction and guessed what she was thinking. “Let me order.”

Anastasia quickly said, “How about we go somewhere else? This place is too expensive.

Herman laughed it off, “It’s fine. I have a discount coupon, a gift from a client. We can get half off, and the restaurant will give us an invoice for the company to reimburse”

“What?” Anastasia whispered in surprise, “Isn’t that like using the company’s money for free? Won’t that cause trouble if we get caught?”

She had worked in a company where colleagues had gotten fired for using company money for personal expenses. She was surprised because she hadn’t expected the seemingly competent Herman to do something like this.

Herman was amused by Anastasia’s reaction. “I was just joking with you, no need to get worked up. So, what do you guys feel like eating?”

“Anything’s fine,” Anastasia said. “My mom always says to just order a couple of dishes. If we can’t finish, it’s a waste.”

Salma agreed, “Exactly, Herman. Don’t order too much.”

Herman chuckled, “Alright then”

To ease their worries, Herman ordered four dishes and a soup, all signature dishes of the restaurant. Anastasia glanced at the prices and felt a pang. even though she wasn’t footing the bill.

Soon, all the dishes were cerved

Herman got up, personally pouring water for Anastasia and Salma, the epitome of a gentleman. Then he handed a bank card to Anastasia.

This is my salary card. I’m giving it to you in front of your mom. From now on, you’ll be in charge of this family” He turned to Salma, I’ll take good care of Anastasia, and I won’t let her suffer any grievances.”