The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Everyone dreams of happily ever after when they walk down the aisle.

Herman held Anastasia's hand as they made their way to the altar where their future awaited.

The officiant, with a warm smile, asked, "Mr. Salstrom, do you take the lovely Miss Anastasia here to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish, till death do you part?"

"I do," Herman replied, his voice full of emotion. Holding the microphone tightly, he added, "Anastasia, I love you. From the moment I saw you, I knew it was fate. I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you."

The guests were moved by Herman's heartfelt declaration. Monica, beaming with joy, whispered, "This makes me want to get married right now."

Jason, sitting beside her, glanced at Monica, his eyes darkening with something unspoken.

As the couple exchanged rings and sealed their vows with a kiss, Monica clapped enthusiastically.

But not everyone was happy.

Julie, in the guest seats, watched them with a grip on her wine glass that showed her inner turmoil. Her eyes were cold enough to pierce through Anastasia.

Cynthia, equally envious, muttered to Salma, "Ana's so lucky. Not like poor Gianna, hiding away at home. Life's so unfair."

Salma forced a strained smile, choosing silence over adding to the bitterness.

Tavon, however, couldn't hold back, "Ana's luck is something others can only dream of. She's marrying into a wealthy family and has a wonderful mother-in-law. This whole wedding was organized by her. And that emerald necklace on Ana? It's a family heirloom, worth a fortune."

With each word, Cynthia's envy grew, "No need to rub it in, Tavon. My sister worked hard raising her daughter, and now you're enjoying the benefits without spending a dime," she said, trying to unsettle Salma with her words.

Tavon, unfazed, replied with a grin, "That's just good luck. Who wouldn't want a capable daughter like ours? Stop being sour, Auntie Ana. Your daughter's chances of marrying into high society are slim to none."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Cynthia's face darkened. "Salma, listen to him! Why keep such a callous man? I'll find you someone better."

Before Salma could respond, Tavon cut in, "Auntie Ana, you just can't stand to see Salma doing better than you, can you? If you really had someone better for her, wouldn't you have introduced him by now? Or are you saving the good ones for yourself?" Tavon's sharp retorts left Cynthia speechless.

Caught in the middle, Salma tried to smooth things over, "Let's cool it. Today's Ana's big day."

"Only because your sister's being rude," Tavon muttered.

"What did I say? Tavon, you deceive my sister and still think you're right?" Cynthia grumbled.

Salma felt overwhelmed, rubbing her temples.

The ceremony ended, and Anastasia needed to change into her reception dress.

Monica headed backstage to help.

Anastasia had four outfits for the day, each carefully chosen for different moments.

As the makeup artist worked on Anastasia's new look, Monica brought over some fruit, "Have a bite to keep the hunger at bay. I know you must be starving."

"You know me too well," Anastasia smiled, taking a bite of an apple. "Monica, have you seen Pattie? I didn't notice her earlier."

"I haven't seen her either. Maybe she's with your aunt," Monica replied.

"Monica, could you please find Pattie for me? She's been running around all day."

"Sure, I'll take a look. You go on with your touch-up."

As Monica left to search for Pattie, Salma was also looking for her. She thought Pattie might have come to the dressing room to see Anastasia and became frantic upon learning that even Anastasia hadn't seen her. "Where could that child have gone? I've been looking all over for her."