The Bound Between Us

Chapter 903

Caterina's face lit up as she took the cash, her grin stretching ear to ear. By her guess, it was a solid ten grand. Now that's what you call generous.

Autumn was desperate to see her grandson and build a real connection. So, on the sly, she slipped the nanny some extra cash to sneak Daria out and set up these "accidental" meetings.

"Thank you, Mrs. Walker," Caterina beamed, nearly losing her face in all that smiling.

Autumn leaned in, voice low and secretive. "Keep this between us, alright? Just you and me. And trust me, stick with this and there's plenty more where that came from."

"Don't worry, my lips are sealed." Inside, Caterina could barely contain her excitement. Easy money for doing almost nothing? Who would say no to that? "Go on and spend time with Daria. I'll just make an excuse to use the restroom.”

Caterina had a knack for reading situations. She didn't know exactly what Autumn was after, but as far as she could tell, Autumn adored Daria and meant him no harm. And the money was too good to pass up.

She waved at Daria. "Sweetie, I'm just popping to the restroom. You play here, and I'll be right back."

Daria was a confident, social kid. Even without an adult glued to his side, he could entertain himself just fine.

Before leaving, Caterina checked in with the play area manager and made sure Autumn was allowed to stay and watch Daria. Only then did the manager let Autumn in to join them.

bringing her grandson to a play center. Wanting to win him over, she'd

called, smiling as she approached. "Remember me? I brought you a present. Want to see what it

how boys loved cars and robots, Autumn pulled

at the toy, but as soon as he looked at Autumn, his little face turned stubborn and he

and hurt. Why did this kid dislike her so much? She'd never done

really like you. I can get you anything you want. Why don't

dare call

way," Daria shot back, arms

met a kid this hard to win over. She tried

out of ideas, she tried a different approach.

got his attention.

but Dad always said he didn't have a mom. Lots of pretty ladies wanted to be his mom, but he'd

sit in the café. I'll tell you all about

for his mother had always been there-he saw other kids with their moms and wanted that too. This time, Autumn's words struck home, and he followed

photo. “See? This is your mom. Isn't she beautiful? She was

of Julie, smiling, was one Autumn had gotten from