The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Katelyn's mention of her late Grannie Anita hit Feiman hard, causing him to abruptly pull over to the side of the road.

"Katelyn, my mom's been gone for so long. Can't you just let it go? Holding onto the mistakes of someone who's passed... what's the point? You're full of resentment, finding fault in everything I do. It's like nothing I do is ever right," Feiman's voice was a mix of frustration and a plea for understanding. "What have you done that's worth praising? Look at the mess you've made lately. None of it brings any joy," Katelyn shot back, her face stern and unyielding. "You didn't even bother asking for my blessing before taking in Joseph and adopting that child. Feiman, I'm still your wife by law. You think you can just do whatever you want without consulting me?"

"Herman hasn't said anything..."

"Don't you dare use our son as an excuse. Just because Herman doesn't speak up doesn't mean he agrees. You've got a child out of wedlock; you owe me an explanation, not use our son as a shield. Feiman, you've got some nerve. If you're so keen on calling the shots, why don't you just go ahead and file for divorce?"

The word "divorce" was once a line neither dared to cross, even in their coldest arguments. But now, as Katelyn spat it out, it shocked Feiman to his core.

There are lines in a marriage you don't cross, things you don't do-it's the basic principle of respect.

Once certain words are spoken, they can't be taken back. They leave scars that can deeply affect a relationship.

Feiman looked at Katelyn incredulously, his lips trembling, too struck by anger to respond.

The mention of divorce was like a chisel, cracking the icy wall that had formed between them.

After the words left her lips, Katelyn's heart raced, a flicker of regret seeping in.

It was a heat-of-the-moment outburst.

No matter their age, women have their pride, especially in critical moments like this. Katelyn expected Feiman to cave and come around, as women often do in arguments, bluffing in hopes of a man's concession. But this time, Katelyn had underestimated Feiman.

After his initial shock, Feiman said, "If you really want a divorce, I won't stand in your way."

Those words were like gasoline to the flame.

"Fine. Let's divorce."

Katelyn stormed out of the car, her determination as firm as her voice. "After Herman's wedding, we'll head to the County Clerk's office."

With those final words, she slammed the car door behind her and walked away, her anger palpable in the evening air.

Feiman opened his mouth to speak but ended up sighing instead.

Men and women are inherently different creatures.

Women tend to hold onto the past, while men guard their pride. You can hurl any insult, but bringing a mother into it crosses a line.

Feiman watched Katelyn walk away, regretting the exchange, and reached for his phone to call his eldest son for help.

Herman, upon learning of his parents' impending divorce, felt helpless.

Worried about Katelyn's state of mind, Herman decided to call Anastasia, knowing that a woman's touch might help soothe the situation.

Anastasia grabbed her keys and set off to find Katelyn.

She found Katelyn at a beauty salon, lying back with a face mask on, venting to her beautician.

Anastasia had accompanied Katelyn to the salon a few times before, so the staff recognized her. As Anastasia arrived, the beautician greeted her with a respectful, "Mrs. Junior."

In this upscale salon, Anastasia's marriage to Herman was well-known, and the staff had the sense to acknowledge her accordingly.

Upon hearing Anastasia's arrival, Katelyn opened her eyes. "Ana, what brings you here?"

"Just looking for some inspiration. I knew you were here and thought I could catch you for dinner," Anastasia said with a smile, taking a seat. "Mom, your skin's looking better and better. Someone might mistake you for being in your early thirties." "Flattery will get you everywhere," Katelyn said, but her tone betrayed the sweet feeling the compliment had stirred within her.

After the beautician finished with Katelyn's mask and stepped out to give them privacy, Katelyn asked, "Out with it. Who sent you? Herman?"

"Mom, you really can't be fooled," laughed Anastasia. "Herman's just worried about you."

"I'm old enough not to be foolish," Katelyn sighed. "Your wedding with Herman is next month. Trust me, I'll be fine."

"Mom," Anastasia took Katelyn's hand gently, her voice soft and concerned, "is there really no chance to mend things?"