The Bond Between Us novel Chapter 778

Jarod's surprise was as genuine as it gets. This wasn't the kind of place he'd ever find himself, if not for Anastasia bringing him along. And Herman? He didn't strike as someone who'd frequent a lively street market either.

Jarod's world was filled with glitz and glamour: stunning women by his side, luxury yachts, exclusive clubs, golf courses, and even underground boxing matches.

But Anastasia challenged him, "Why couldn't he enjoy a place like this? Before Herman, I used to run a stall here."

Anastasia wanted Jarod to see she wasn't some pampered heiress or trophy wife, nor one of those arm candy girls he was used to. She was a self-made woman who’d risen from humble beginnings.

Jarod didn’t know much about her past, just that her upbringing wasn't affluent. As Mrs. Salstrom, she was often seen as an accessory to Herman, remembered for her striking beauty rather than her name.

Her marriage into wealth was just a stepping stone, but those who truly knew Anastasia understood she was no ordinary woman. She was like a rare gem, full of surprises.

Sipping her coffee, she continued, "Mr. Jarod, see that spot with the street vendors over there? That used to be me, with a little van and a stall selling handmade jewelry. I studied jewelry design, but I've moved on from that now. These days, my focus is on managing a company with thousands of employees. I owe that to Herman."

Jarod gave a thumbs up, "Ms. Anastasia, not many people earn my respect, but you're definitely one of them—the first woman, actually. I'm confident our collaboration on the South Bay Project will be a success."

Anastasia offered a gentle smile, raising her coffee cup, "Here's to a fruitful partnership."

"To a great partnership," Jarod replied, clinking his cold coffee cup against hers. He chuckled, "Discussing business over coffee is a first for me. It's refreshing."

Anastasia laughed, "Coffee keeps us alert, Mr. Jarod. You don’t have to worry about being drugged."