The Bound Between Us

Katelyn had always thought of Autumn as a true friend. Plus, since Autumn was married to the council president, keeping their friendship strong was just smart.

Lately, though, with all the mess about those leaked photos, Katelyn had been feeling overwhelmed. Autumn's visit couldn't have come at a better time-she needed someone to talk to, someone who'd really get it.

As Autumn stepped into the living room, Katelyn greeted her with a big, warm smile, ushering her to the comfiest seat and telling the housekeeper to bring out the best tea.

"Autumn, I can't tell you how happy I am to see you. I've been stuck at home for days with nobody to talk to—I'm going stir-crazy."

Autumn gave her a look only an old friend can pull off-half teasing, half worried. "I heard you haven't left the house in a while. Figured you might need some cheering up, so I thought I'd stop by. Katelyn, what's done is done-you can't let it eat you alive."

Katelyn let out a heavy sigh. "I'm honestly too embarrassed to go outside. The house phone rings nonstop, reporters are camped out front...I just don't know what I did to deserve this. Feels like we'll never have peace in this house."

Autumn lowered her voice, "How's your daughter-in-law holding up?"

Katelyn's smile faded. “She's been hiding in her room, refusing to see anyone. I mean, who could blame her? Her mom says Ana's even had some...well, really dark thoughts. She's not handling any of this."

expression sympathetic. She pressed on, "And your oldest son? I heard all this drama is even hurting Elysian Technologies.

family would drop Ana. With their support gone, Ana would be easy

on Ana, no matter what. She's the mother of his three

was frustrated, sure,

Not spotting Daria,

was careful not to sound

in the backyard," Katelyn answered, brightening. "Emmie and Nancy have started walking, and now they're

her grandkids made Katelyn's whole face

Autumn still hadn't heard anything about Daria. She couldn't help

é

Joseph picked her up this morning, Katelyn replied, frowning little. "He's her dad, after all. About time

at Salstrom Manor, Autumn lost most of her interest in staying. She lingered for a bit, looking for a polite

"Why'd you bring Daria back?

rolled his