The Bound Between Us

Chapter 956

Justin was just curious, that's all. Pattie was such a sweet, beautiful girl-why did she have to be mute? She seemed almost perfect, but fate had given her this one flaw.

Pattie shook her head, lost in the memory of being locked in the basement by Gianna. Her hands and feet tensed up on their own, a reflex born of fear-her body's way of trying to protect itself.

Justin realized what was happening and didn't ask any more questions. Instead, he changed the subject, trying to cheer her up. "Hey, your forehead's almost back to normal. You'll be able to go out soon. The birthday party's about to start. Paradise, today's your special day-you have to be happy, okay? Every birthday, every single day, you should be happy, really. Promise me?"

...

Layna, who had stormed out of the party in anger, hadn't actually left. She was sulking in the backseat of the car, fuming and pouting.

Juliana finally tracked her down, her heart aching for Layna. "Layna, don't be upset. Don't let that mute girl get under your skin. It's nothing, really."

Layna was heartbroken, wiping her tears. "Aunt Juliana, Justin saw me rip the drawing. He saw everything. What if he doesn't like me anymore? What if he hates me now? What am I supposed to do?"

"You're still a kid-kids throw tantrums, that's normal. When you're older, nobody's even going to remember today," Juliana said, hugging Layna close. "Next time you see that mute girl, just keep your distance, okay? Remember, you're going to marry into the Wisman family, so why bother with her?"

her. He even gave her that drawing. He's supposed to

as childish drama-nothing that wouldn't be forgotten with time. When the kids

a pretty girl, Layna. When you grow up, you're going to be a real beauty. With the friendship between the Stranz and Wisman families,

perked up

you?" Juliana smiled. "I'll always make sure

Not like Anastasia-she's always yelling at me and playing favorites." Layna knew just how to win Juliana over, switching from "aunt” to "mom"

help but laugh. "You little sweetheart,

her home. After all that, she really didn't want to go back to the

then, Scott came

heart skipped a beat when she saw him. "Layna, stay here in

meet him. "Scott, what are you doing

said stiffly. "I've had the butler pack her things. Tonight, she's going

can't send Layna to Windsor! That place is for troubled

not fine, Scott