The Bound Between Us

Chapter 438

Bending down, Anastasia picked up the small bottle and examined it. It had no labels or markings. "Katie," she asked, "what is this?"

Katie fumbled for words, "They're vitamin supplements. My doctor said I was deficient, so I've been taking them."

Anastasia didn't press further. Handing the bottle back to Katie, she smiled, "Take good care of yourself and get plenty of rest. By the way, do you need help applying that ointment? I worry it might be tricky for you." "No need, I'll do it at home," Katie replied hastily, taking the bottle and heading towards the kitchen. "You should rest too, ma'am. Pregnancy isn't easy." Anastasia sensed something was off, but if Katie didn't want to share, it wasn't her place to pry.

Later that afternoon, when Salma picked up Pattie from school, Anastasia pulled her aside for a private chat. That's when she learned about Katie's injuries.

Katie on the phone this morning," Salma whispered. "She was talking to her daughter. Katie's been dealing with domestic violence for a long time." Confused,

simple, especially with an abusive partner. They can be so unreasonable and clingy, making life a living hell. Look at Gianna. If she hadn't ended up paralyzed, she'd still be suffering." In relationships, women often

fix," Salma continued, her voice tinged with the wisdom of experience. "Men are the most practical beings.

relieved to see her clear-headed and realistic. Women need to be able to let go when necessary. Her biggest fear was that her mother would be swayed by Tavon again. Taking Anastasia's hand, Salma sighed, "You stood up for me and reclaimed the dignity we

to acknowledge him didn't affect his

any lines or tarnish the Salstrom family's reputation, Herman was willing to turn a blind eye. Tavon was clever enough to leverage this relationship to his advantage, without stepping

and he wasn't foolish enough

placate Salma and secure Anastasia, Tavon had indeed transferred some of his company's stocks to Anastasia. He had also issued a statement declaring her as the company's