The Bound Between Us

Chapter 175
Herman was in a good mood, which lightened up the meeting atmosphere, making it less stuffy and serious. Heck, the meeting
even ended early.
Everyone wished Mr. Salstrom could be happy-go-lucky every day so they wouldn’t have to walk on eggshells around him. Of
course, they also wished Mrs. Salstrom and Mr. Salstrom were lovey-dovey. If they were good, life as their subordinates would
be a piece of
cake.
Back in his office. Herman told Nelson, “Give Victor from Elysian Technologies’ jewelry company a pay bump. If he doesn’t screw
up. bring him back to headquarters by year-end.”
Nelson got the hint. “Gotcha, Mr. Salstrom. I know what to do.”
Seemed like if you wanted a raise, you’d have to butter up Mrs. Salstrom.
Once Nelson stepped out, Flynn, lounging on the couch, said to Herman, “Victor’s a smart cookie. Herman, I could use some
extra dough too. Maybe I can put on a better show in front of Mrs. Salstrom next time
Herman replied, “I don’t have any spare change for you, but I can hook you up with a girlfriend. Interested? My wife mentioned
this morning she wanted to introduce you to Lauren from Mill’s Seasoning.”
Flynn shook his head. “Nah, she’s not my type. Too fierce, zero charm. She goes gaga over any guy with a decent body. Count
me out”
Herman gave Flynn a once-over. ‘With your scrawny figure, Lauren might not want you either.”
Flynn stood up and lifted his shirt. “I may not have a six-pack, but I’ve got at least four. What’s wrong with that? Want proof?”
Herman turned away dismissively. “I’m not into guys. Quit grossing me out.”
*Just a quick look, come on.” Flynn pulled up his shirt, standing in front of Herman.
Herman was speechless.

Anastasia got a promotion and a raise, which thrilled Salma, Monica, seeing the news, was also happy for her. They decided to
go out for dinner to celebrate.
After work, Anastasia drove to Monica’s beauty salon.
As she waited outside and was about to text Monica, she saw Monica and her young boyfriend emerging from the salon.
He kissed Monica on the cheek, then walked over to a nearby BMW, blowing Monica a kiss goodbye. “See you, babe.” Monica
blew a kiss back
Watching their PDA, Anastasia felt a bit nauseous.
Once Monica’s boyfriend left, Anastasia honked the horn to get Monica’s attention. Monica hurried over, “Il ride with you today”
Anastasia just saw her boyfriend drive off in Monica’s BMW.
Anastasia asked, “Where do we eat? My treat.”
Monica replied, “You got a promotion and a raise. We should go all out. I’m craving BBQ.”
Anastasia laughed. “If all it takes is BBQ to make you happy, consider It done.”
“Where’s your hubby?” Monica asked. “You got a promotion and a raise. Did he do anything for you?”
“He’s still at work, I texted him. His money is my money, so if he spent money to celebrate, I’d feel bad.”
Before, Anastasia was always clear about money with Herman. Even spending a penny more made her anxious. But now, she
didn’t see any boundaries between their belongings.
“You’re always trying to save money for your husband. He has plenty, you don’t need to save for him.”
“He’s given the many gifts, necklaces, and rings. He always brings me something when he’s on a business trip,” Anastasia said,
lost in her happy bubble. “Life needs a bit of romance, but it also needs to be a bit practical.”
While chatting, Anastasia drove to a nearby BBQ restaurant and found a table. The place had a buffet-style BBQ with a wide
variety. They grabbed a load of food and started grilling.
Anastasia casually asked, “Monica, when are you and your boyfriend planning to tie the knot?”

“We haven’t thought about it,” Monica replied. “He’s younger than me, he won’t get married so soon.”
“You’re already 25. You can’t keep putting it off. Even if you’re not getting married right away, you should have a plan.”
Monica laughed. “I used to push you to get a boyfriend, and now you’re pushing me to get married. How times have changed.”
“Don’t joke around. I’m serious,” Anastasia said, lightly slapping Monica’s hand. “You really should think about it. Women age
fast after
“You sound just like I used to.” Monica laughed. “Don’t worry, I have a plan.”
Hearing Monica’s response, Anastasia didn’t press further.
Anastasia then asked, “Monica, do you know how Cason’s been doing lately?”
Monica was surprised. “Ana, why are you suddenly asking about him?”
“I was just wondering. You mentioned his law firm went bankrupt, and his family’s factory had issues. How’s he doing now?”
Monica hesitated before saying, “I heard he’s in jail.”
Anastasia was shocked, “What did he do?”