The Bound Between Us

Chapter 844

The moment Autumn realized that Daria was her grandson-her daughter Julie's child her heart thudded with emotion. She wanted nothing more than to gather the little boy up and never let go.

Autumn managed to rein in her feelings, smoothing her expression and offering a warm, sincere compliment. "He's such a handsome kid, isn't he? Those bright eyes... he's going to break some hearts when he's older, I'm sure of it."

Katelyn, thinking Autumn was just being polite, grinned. "He's alright, I suppose. Mrs. Walker, can I get you some coffee?"

"Oh, anything's fine," Autumn replied. "Back on the farm, we didn't have coffee- just plain water, really. I'm not picky. And please, don't call me Mrs. Walker. Just Autumn is fine! No need to be so formal. You're helping me settle in here in Riverdale, and honestly, I already think of you as a friend. Let's skip the formalities and be sisters from now on."

All the while, Autumn's eyes rarely left Daria, her affection and longing written all over her face.

Katelyn laughed. "Well, I'm a year older, so I guess I get to call you my little sis, then."

"Works for me, Katelyn," Autumn replied, smiling easily, and the two women slipped into a comfortable chat.

Meanwhile, Anastasia sat quietly to the side, scrolling through her phone, though she kept glancing up at Autumn, curiosity and caution flickering in her eyes.

Katelyn ordered a coffee for Autumn. Before long, Daria woke up from his nap. He rubbed his sleepy eyes, and spotting Anastasia, reached out. "Mommy, up!"

Anastasia, craving comfort. He'd never really had a mother, but he'd heard other kids call for theirs, and he

one word "Mommy"-hit Anastasia hard. Surprise, longing,

Anita's schemes, was gone. And

hadn't been taken, he'd

to move, not reaching for

and climbed

happened so naturally, everyone stared for

of "Mommy" startled both Autumn

just call anyone 'Mommy.' She's

She was suddenly sure: she had to get

snuggled closer to Anastasia, as if he hadn't heard

a loss, Anastasia gently hugged Daria back. "Hey, why don't you go look at

in the pond over there? They're

Daria slid down and scampered

turned to the nanny. "Keep an eye on

nodded. "Of