The Bound Between Us

Chapter 950

Layna had that sugary, sing-song voice that adults just couldn't resist. She wasn't clueless-if she ever wanted to become the Wisman family's daughter-in-law, she had to win Jonah over first.

Kids these days might look innocent, but their minds are always working overtime.

To Jonah, though, Layna was just an eight-year-old girl-at that age, she was supposed to be all fun and games. He never imagined she had any other motives.

Jonah smiled and tossed out a compliment. "Layna's such a sweetheart-so charming! You should come visit us in Newport sometime."

Layna's eyes lit up. "Really, Uncle Jonah? I'd love to go to Newport!"

"Of course," Jonah laughed. "Uncle Jonah would be happy to have you."

,

Layna knew exactly how to wrap adults around her finger. She turned to Scott, putting on her sweetest face. "Uncle Scott, can I go? I really want to see Newport."

Scott was a bit surprised-Layna was unusually well-behaved today. He knew Jonah was just being polite, so he said, “Maybe when you're on break, Layna. For now, your job is to focus on school."

Layna tried to hide her disappointment for Jonah's sake, flashing a bright smile. "Alright! Justin, when summer break comes, I'll come find you in Newport, okay?"

Justin nodded out of politeness, then turned to Pattie. "You're welcome too. Newport's full of cool places-I'll show you around when you come."

Layna's heart twisted with jealousy-Justin was so warm toward Pattie, but barely noticed her.

refused. With all the adults watching, and as the birthday girl no

going to Newport

mute-so she preferred not to trouble

out, "Jonah, Mr. Stranz, please

held Pattie's hand, worried Pattie

and even though Pattie was the star of the show, she couldn't say a word. By the end

also know that in the Salstrom family, Pattie's position was

letting her

banquet hall. As Anastasia entered, she could

memories of that old scandal-what the gossip columns had dubbed the "Emmie White

course, nobody was crass enough to mention

owe anyone an explanation, and even if she

was herself.

look beautiful today," Katelyn said, gliding over with a big smile. "Let Grandma take a look at you. Qur eldest granddaughter just gorgeous! Your eyes

so it was clear Pattie was Herman's real daughter-not

pride-so different from how

cue and started showering Pattie with

stunning, Katelyn. Your granddaughter's going to grow up to

lovely girl! I wonder which lucky family will win her over

day."

all just flattery, an attempt