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."

that, Autumn felt a quick flicker of satisfaction, though she kept her expression sympathetic. She pressed on, "And your oldest son? I heard all this drama

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

stubborn as a mule. He's not giving up on Ana, no matter what. She's the mother of his three kids-he won't turn his back on

of the question for the Salstroms. Katelyn was frustrated, sure, but tossing Ana aside was never an

her disappointment and glanced around the living room. Not spotting Daria, she asked lightly, "Where are the kids? It's so quiet in

to sound too interested

answered, brightening. "Emmie and Nancy have started

made

about Daria. She couldn't help herself. "And

é

replied, frowning little. "He's her dad, after all. About time

her interest in staying. She lingered for a

surprised. "Why'd you bring Daria back? Where's

his eyes.