The Bound Between Us

Once Pattie and her dad finished talking, she agreed to have a birthday party- and Herman promised not to stick his nose into her friendships.

But when Herman got back to the bedroom, he still looked troubled.

Anastasia had just gotten the little ones to sleep. When she saw him come in, she slipped out onto the balcony for a smoke, then peeked back inside, curious. "What's wrong? Did Pattie say no about the party?"

"No, that's not it." Herman took a drag and quickly put out his cigarette, not wanting the smoke to drift her way.

"Then why the gloomy look?" Anastasia reached up, gently smoothing the frown from his brow. "Something bothering you?"

He smiled, catching her hand and holding it in his.

Whether he remembered the past or not, loving her had become second nature. He wrapped her arms around his waist. “I talked to Pattie. She's okay with the party, but on one condition: I have to invite the Wisman family."

Anastasia blinked. "Who's the Wisman family?"

"They're the folks who dropped off the painting for Pattie this afternoon-Jonah Wisman's family. Their son, Zach, helped Pattie out today. I think it's the first time she's really experienced friendship. But now I'm worried-what if Zach ends up stealing our daughter's heart?"

Anastasia grinned, finally catching on. "You're jumping the gun, babe. She's only eight! You're already thinking about her future love life? If Zach helps Pattie break out of her shell and make more friends, that's a good thing. Childhood buddies can be the best, you know. Besides, what's this Wisman family like?"

"Nelson told me I used to work with Jonah-he's a decent guy. Inviting their family to Pattie's party seems like a good way to reconnect. And if Elysian Technologies wants to expand here, I should get to know them first."

else's turf and expect

practically ran this town. Herman

yours," Anastasia said, cuddling into his arms.

"Just wait. You're about to feel even

kissed her, hard and deep, hands gripping

realized—he wasn't talking about happiness in the

was getting bolder

soft, as if the world had wrapped them in

like it was soaking in honey-sweet, heady, and warm.

life

this, she wouldn't

one bit.

thought that if he died right here in her arms,

and the irresistible pull

lifted her leg over

What is

and wanting nothing

3t's risking everything

t together. Contents