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.

all the adults watching, and as the birthday girl no less,

intention of going to Newport anyway. Home was

she preferred

Herman called out, "Jonah, Mr. Stranz,

worried Pattie might feel

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

the Salstrom family, Pattie's position was rock solid. Mute or not, nobody

smiled at Anastasia, letting her know she

grand banquet hall. As Anastasia entered, she

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

was crass enough to

didn't owe anyone an explanation, and

was herself. As long as her conscience was clear, nothing

smile. "Let Grandma take a look at you. Qur eldest granddaughter just gorgeous! Your eyes and nose are

it was clear Pattie was

tightly, beaming with pride-so different from how she'd been

up on the cue

going to grow up

wonder which

day."

all just flattery, an attempt