The Bound Between Us

Chapter 847

That afternoon, as they talked about taking the kids out, Anastasia brought up something that had been bugging her about Autumn.

"Babe," she said, "Mrs. Walker's been trying so hard to get on Mom's good side, right? So why is she so cold toward Emmie and Nancy, but seems to absolutely adore Daria? Doesn't that strike you as odd?"

It was obvious Katelyn wasn't a fan of Daria-her feelings showed on her face, and Autumn couldn't have missed that. Yet, Autumn acted like she really liked Daria. It all felt a bit backwards.

To make things weirder, Daria clearly wasn't keen on Autumn either. So why the sudden affection from Autumn?

Herman folded his arms, thoughtful. "People don't just like or dislike others for no reason. If it feels strange, it's just because we haven't figured out the reason yet. Once we find it, everything will make sense."

"So what's Mrs. Walker's reason for liking Daria?" Anastasia wondered aloud. "When she first met Daria, things were tense-Daria was pretty standoffish, even lashed out at her."

"Try to think back,” Herman suggested. "Was there a specific moment when Mrs. Walker's attitude shifted? Usually, there's a small clue."

Anastasia replayed the scene in her mind: Autumn had been asking about Daria, and Katelyn casually mentioned, "That's Joseph and Julie's kid." Right after that, Autumn's expression changed, even if just a little.

What was it about that comment that made Autumn react?

She felt like she was on the verge of figuring it out, but the answer kept slipping away.

stress about it, it's not worth it. Let's focus on something fun. Should we catch a movie tonight, or maybe after dinner, go for a walk at the

food and just enjoy the evening,” Anastasia agreed, letting go of her worries. If Autumn didn't like her kids, she'd just ask Katelyn not to bring them along next

Night market it is," Herman said with a

"Let's see how much you actually remember. Not that it

"Deal."

the lively street, the city lights twinkling around them. When they reached the front

burst out laughing, sharing a look only couples in sync can share. Anastasia had a weakness for bubble tea just passing

Taro milk tea, warm?" Herman

grinned. "Since you bought dinner, I'll treat

let go of his hand and stepped up to the counter.

nearby university, chatting

teas in hand, Anastasia and Herman laced their

busy

passing by couldn't help but take a second look—maybe even thinking

sweethearts.

to throw her a real birthday party. People have always

to let his daughter be treated like she didn't belong. If she

softened. He was finally thinking

that if we announce who she is, everyone will