The Bound Between Us

Chapter 979

Pattie had just been wheeled out of surgery and into her hospital room. Anastasia, Katelyn, and the rest of the family rushed in, all anxious to see her.

Pattie was still out cold, but Anastasia couldn't help herself-she gripped Pattie's hand, her heart practically bursting with relief and joy.

Katelyn beamed. "The surgery was a total success! Once Pattie's throat heals, she'll finally be able to talk. This is huge for the Salstrom family. Honestly, it's the best news we've had in years."

Salma let out a long breath, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "Yeah, I can finally stop worrying. That poor girl's been through enough."

Out of all her grandchildren, Salma felt the most guilt over Pattie. She'd always loved her the most, too. The regret ran deep—if only she hadn't lost Pattie all those years ago, maybe things would have turned out differently.

Feiman watched over Pattie as she slept, his expression soft. "She's paid her dues and then some. Now it's time for smooth sailing-may she always be safe, happy, and healthy."

Monica nudged Anastasia, grinning. "Ana, you can finally relax. The surgery was a homerun."

Flynn chimed in, "Told you it'd be fine! Dr. James is the best there is. With him on the job, nothing could go wrong."

Anastasia pressed Pattie's hand to her own cheek, her heart so full it almost hurt.

people hovering over her wasn't going to help. After a little while, Herman signaled to

only then that

Salma. "Mom, where's

"Don't get me started. He picked today of all days to go out for coffee with

Anastasia decided

in and spoke quietly to Anastasia. "Your dad

in surprise. "Wait, what? That's so sudden. Didn't Mom just say he was out with

handed her his phone. "He texted me. Ashley jumped out of her apartment window. Your dad rushed back home. For now, let's

at him, stunned. "What? Ashley? I can't believe she'd

before-but actually

don't buy it. Honestly, Ashley always struck me as a fighter. No matter how hard things got, staying alive is

been pretty sudden.

wide. "Bankruptcy yesterday, and Ashley jumps

and it was devastating

letter even mentioned Anastasia.

to everyone on the