The Bound Between Us

Chapter 811

The way the kids clung to Herman, laughing and pulling at his sleeves, made him feel like he finally belonged. For the first time in ages, his wandering soul felt like it had come home.

There was no mistaking the warmth he felt with Anastasia and the children. With Sandy and Nicholas, there was always a sense of distance. But here, with them, everything felt right. He felt grounded.

Anastasia didn't want to interrupt. Once everyone else had gone, she lingered just outside the yard, quietly watching the sweet scene unfold. Her heart felt lighter than it had in months.

Salma came over, wrapping her cardigan a bit tighter. "Ana, honey, you should get some rest. He's home now-he's not going anywhere. Just look at yourself, you're completely worn out."

Anastasia hadn't slept all night. She'd rushed to Willowbrook and barely closed her eyes in days. Now that Herman was home, she could finally breathe again.

"I'll go rest in a bit," Anastasia replied, worry flickering in her eyes. "He's only just come back. I'm afraid it's all a bit much for him."

"You always put everyone else first, especially your son-in-law. I'm more worried you'll wear yourself out," Salma said, her voice full of motherly concern. After living together these past months, she'd seen how hard Anastasia had struggled.

Anastasia managed a tired smile. Her body ached, her head felt heavy, and she could sense a fever coming on. Still, she couldn't bring herself to rest, afraid she'd wake up and find it had all been just a dream.

Everything that happened today felt surreal—like a wild, beautiful dream she wasn't ready to let go of.

Anastasia and Salma talking in the yard. He gently placed the kids in their playpen and

She was simply thrilled to have her dad

making sure the kids were settled, Herman stepped outside. Salma saw him coming and, with a

down, Anastasia greeted him with a bright smile, wanting him to feel how much

or if you want to ask me something-anything at all-just let me know. I'm here for you,"

gaze deep and intent. The breeze caught a few strands of her hair, and he could see just how tired she was-how

sudden ache pricked his chest. Without thinking, he reached out,

heart leapt at the tender gesture. He was so close; she could smell the faint, familiar scent of him, and her cheeks

you for coming back,"

voice low and rough. "I... I

for weeks now-vivid, tangled dreams that faded when he woke. He could never quite see the woman's face in them,

dreaming about you too. I knew you wouldn't just leave

burying her face in his chest. She'd put

she didn't

her, Herman felt whole for the first time in what felt like

remember it all, but his mind was still