The Bound Between Us

Chapter 475

When Salma heard the words "firing squad" or "twenty years," her world spun, and she nearly passed out. Lost in her worries and sorrow, she didn't notice the small figure crouched on the staircase.

Pattie had been there for a while, overhearing the conversation between Cynthia and Salma. Murder, sentencing, prison, execution... These words, strung together, were clear enough for five-year-old Pattie to grasp the situation. Mommy was in trouble, Mommy was going to be executed, Mommy could die. Clutching her stuffed animal tightly, Pattie slipped out the side door, unnoticed by Salma. She was determined to find Daddy to save Mommy.

Anastasia, detained and oblivious to the uproar surrounding Grannie Anita's murder, didn't know how many people genuinely cared or were merely pretending. Thanks to Herman's intervention, Anastasia's conditions in the detention center were relatively good: a private room with heating, a soft bed, and even fresh fruit.

Resting against the bedpost, Anastasia looked up at the ceiling with an unexpected calm. She didn't protest or defend herself, quietly waiting for the judgment. After so long feeling agitated, she now found peace. She had avenged her child and had no regrets. "Anastasia, you've got a visitor," called the guard outside as the iron door swung open. Turning her head, Anastasia saw Monica rushing in and embracing her.

scared the hell out of me. For a dead Grannie Anita, you've risked your

Monica to be the second visitor. Monica had ten minutes, secured through signatures and money. Anastasia forced a smile. "I thought I might not

and worry. "I'm going to the Salstroms. I'll beg Herman; he loves you too much to let something happen to you. Besides, this mess started with the Salstroms

Since I've been in here, I've felt a lot more at peace. I don't have to suffer anymore, and I've

take matters into your own hands? It would've been smarter to have someone else do it." Only a true friend would dare speak such thoughts in a police station. Anastasia wiped Monica's tears. "Stop crying; you're not pretty when you cry. You won't find a man that way. And you're calling me foolish? After being fooled by men so often, you still don't learn. If I'm gone, you have to be wise. Don't trust men so easily. Keep a

voice choke up with emotion. "If I'm gone, or if I'm locked up for decades, Monica, please take care of

up. I'll spend everything I have to get you out. The Salstroms

held Monica's hand. "Don't go to him. He's suffering more than anyone.