The Bound Between Us

Chapter 902

Rowan was hopelessly kind, the sort of soft-hearted that makes you want to hug

him just for existing.

Hanna had tried to talk sense into him, more times than she could count. "Rowan,

you've got to stop letting Asher walk all over you." But every time Asher turned up

needing help, Rowan just couldn't say no.

Anastasia had looked Rowan in the eye and said, honest as could be, "Thank you

for taking care of him. He'll come to understand how much you mean. I hope you

two find happiness."

Hanna never said she liked Rowan-not in so many words. But it was there in

every little thing she did for him, in every sidelong glance and gentle touch. You'd

have to be blind not to notice.

Hearing Anastasia's words, Hanna blushed and looked away, suddenly shy.

Anastasia headed out of the clinic. Herman's car was waiting by the curb, engine

humming. He'd come with her today.

She slid into the passenger seat. Herman didn't ask what she and Rowan had

talked about. Instead, he took her hand, his voice soft and warm. "How about we

go out on the boat tonight? The stars look incredible over the water."

Anastasia shook her head. "I want to go to Salstrom Manor. I miss the kids."

Her voice was steady, almost emotionless.

It was the first time she'd left the house since everything blew up. Herman had

done his best to scrub those scandalous photos from the internet, but even so, he

worried whenever she was out of his sight. He insisted on being there, just in

case.

her interest-except the kids. Only thoughts

break through

it is." Herman nodded

Salstrom Manor."

An hour later.

Salstrom Manor.

as Anastasia stepped into the

the back. The two little ones were playing soccer,

soft mats Katelyn had spread

case.

and Pattie were standing as goalies, one on

Suddenly, Emmie and Nancy both tumbled down,

ball, each refusing

Pattie in stitches.

always impatient, squeaked out,

on tighter, so Emmie opened

in, scooping Emmie up. "Hey now, no biting

tickle

face lit up when she saw

sunshine.

clambered to her feet and toddled toward Anastasia, arms

heart softened instantly. Even if the whole world tried to drag

she'd fight her way back

hugged Nancy close, breathing in the sweet, familiar scent

felt

her cheek against Anastasia's, snuggling

kiss on her. "Mama."

brought tears to Anastasia's

and hurried over, her face beaming. She couldn't speak,

her smile said everything.

her, Anastasia felt

moving forward.

eyes and breathed a silent sigh of

spot, but they were her strength,

exchanged a look with Katelyn, and the worry

little.

walked over,

so much weight

is half its

making you a

need to eat."

called toward the kitchen, "Daisy, what do we have in the fridge? Let's