The Bound Between Us

Chapter 916

Caterina had been secretly taking Daria to see Autumn-at least, that's what Anastasia suddenly suspected.

Watching them now, Anastasia was sure this wasn't the first time.

She hid behind a car in the parking lot, peering through the window at Starbucks. Autumn and Daria were sitting together by the glass, drinks in hand. This time, Daria didn't seem awkward or withdrawn; in fact, they looked perfectly at ease with each other.

Anastasia's curiosity got the better of her. She snapped a few photos with her phone, trying to figure out what it was about Daria that drew Autumn in so much.

Once she had the photos, Anastasia didn't stick around. She slipped back into her car and called her mom. "Hey Mom, is Daria home?" she asked, though she already knew the answer.

Katelyn sounded surprised. "No, she's not. Caterina took her out-said she wanted to get some fresh air. Honestly, I don't keep up with that kid. Ana, why are you asking about her?"

It struck Anastasia as odd her mom wasn't asking about her own daughter, but about someone else's. That alone felt off.

"Oh, just wondering," Anastasia replied, keeping it casual. Really, she just wanted to know if Katelyn knew where Daria was-or more importantly, who she was

with.

Before Katelyn could say more, Anastasia hung up, started her car, and drove straight to the private hospital.

texted Monica on the way: Can you

scared-scared that her suspicions were right, that her whole world might be about to

put on a mask, and was about to call Monica when she felt a

popping up out of nowhere

me half to death," Anastasia breathed,

over, worried. "Why are we at the hospital? Are you

slew of tests. The private hospital was quiet and spotless, not

were checking for. She just trailed after Anastasia: bloodwork, CT scan, ultrasound-one thing

it was finally over, all they could

rubbing her hands together to warm them up. "Monica, can you get

a cup. “Ana, what's going on? What's wrong? Why didn't

lip, hesitating. "Lately... I've been...

"Like, an allergy?" Anastasia shook her head, lowering her voice. "Down there."

remembered everything Anastasia had been through, how she'd come here

tellim

Herman but bringing her

Suddenly, it all made

hugged her, voice soft with worry. "Ana...

okay? Whatever it