The Bond Between Us novel Chapter 624

Julie was feeling both anxious and determined as she headed to the dinner. Joseph, known for his generosity and flair for romance, had reserved a table at a classy restaurant and had even prepared a gift and a bouquet of roses. Dressed in a stunning red cocktail dress that highlighted her curves, Julie masked the bitterness in her eyes with a bright smile as she greeted him, “Mr. Salstrom, sorry to keep you waiting.”

Joseph, with his vast experience with women, was captivated by her. He immediately picked up on the signals she was sending with her appearance. “Ms. Kayleigh, please have a seat. I got you a little something,” he said, his gaze lingering on her neckline.

Since having her child, Julie’s figure had become more voluptuous, and she'd learned a thing or two about what men liked. To lure Joseph into her plan, she pretended to drink more than she could handle, playing the part of an innocent to appeal to him. Her ultimate aim was revenge, whether or not Joseph was directly responsible for her troubles. She was set on making him pay.

After dinner, Joseph, feeling victorious and unchallenged by the ease of his conquest, helped a seemingly tipsy Julie to his hotel suite. In his mind, it was all too easy, but there was no denying Julie's allure.

As Joseph moved closer, Julie playfully resisted, “I want another drink, Mr. Salstrom. What are you doing? Why are you kissing me?” With her eyes closed, she had to imagine Joseph was someone else to endure the moment.

“You’re quite the actress, aren’t you? But I like it... makes things interesting,” Joseph murmured, smirking as he proceeded without hesitation. In the dimly lit room, Julie felt a mix of hatred and resignation, her body betraying her desire to resist.

Afterwards, Julie quickly dressed and left, while Joseph, pretending to sleep, reflected on the evening with satisfaction, intrigued by Julie's boldness to remain in Riverdale and engage with him in such a way.

Upon returning home, Julie was confronted by Asher, who demanded she take a shower, reminding her harshly of her debt to him for her freedom. Feeling violated and trapped, Julie complied, later drowning her sorrows in wine, lamenting the loss of her former life and dignity.

Rowan, seeing Julie's distress, offered no comfort and continued on his way despite her desperate pleas for understanding. This adaptation replaces the original characters' dynamic with a Western setting, incorporating familiar elements like upscale restaurants, cocktail dresses, and a nuanced portrayal of revenge and power dynamics, steering clear of direct cultural references that might not resonate with a Western audience.