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

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

Ana, no matter what. She's

Salstroms. Katelyn was frustrated, sure, but tossing Ana

around the living room. Not spotting Daria,

sound too

all in the backyard," Katelyn answered, brightening. "Emmie and Nancy have started walking, and

grandkids made Katelyn's

Daria. She couldn't help herself. "And

é

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

wasn't at Salstrom Manor, Autumn lost most of her interest in staying. She lingered for a bit, looking for a polite excuse to leave, when

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

rolled his