The Bound Between Us

Herman lost his memory after taking a blow to the head during a landslide. There was a blood clot pressing on his nerves, messing with how his brain worked.

James led Herman down to the basement lab, where Herman lay down on the exam table. James got out his set of silver acupuncture needles, inserting them one by one into key pressure points. The goal was to stimulate the brain and help break up the clot.

It wasn't the most pleasant experience-Herman gritted his teeth as the needles pricked his skin. James burned some mugwort nearby, filling the room with its calming scent. Between the acupuncture and the mugwort, the pain faded to something Herman could manage.

After about half an hour, James pulled out the needles. Herman wiped sweat from his forehead, feeling hot and a little numb.

He sat up slowly, rubbing his temples. "How many more times do I need this?"

"Three more sessions," James said, handing him a pill. "Take this. It'll help clear the heat from your body."

Herman swallowed it dry. "Will I get my memory back after three more?"

James shook his head. "No guarantees. I can promise the clot will be gone, and that gives you a much better shot at remembering. But that's all I can say."

It was hope, but not certainty.

Herman was quiet for a moment. His voice was low and steady. "Honestly... it doesn't matter that much anymore."

James nodded. "Yeah. Whether you remember or not, it doesn't change who you are now."

sharp. "What about Pattie's voice? Can

was what really

lot of

sense in raising her hopes

was

me. If it doesn't

one can," Herman said, straightening his shirt and sliding off the bed. He stood tall and calm,

shook his head,

found Anastasia already asleep with Emmie curled up beside her. Nancy was sleeping over with Salma tonight Anastasia loved the sweet, milky smell

as porcelain, with delicate features, a real-life

a rush of happiness. Family

from the acupuncture, Herman took a quick shower. He tiptoed back, gently lifted the blanket, and lay down beside

three of them drifted off together, warm and

days, Emmie and

on her own bed. She was independent, and though she

Pattie would tease her, "Mom, you

was both surprised and proud. For such a young girl, Pattie was wise beyond her

through the night now. As soon as the