The Bound Between Us

Chapter 997

The online drama just wouldn't die down.

Everyone in town was talking, the gossip spreading like wildfire.

Anastasia had already seen the headlines, and when Herman got home that evening, he brought it up too.

"The Stranz family took Layna back home," Herman said. "Scott promised me they'd keep a closer eye on her from now on. After all this, Layna's pretty shaken. I don't think it's worth dragging up the past again."

Anastasia shrugged. "Honestly, the Stranz family taking her home doesn't matter much to me. But, babe, have you seen what people are saying online? That Mr. Simmons-his reputation's trashed. Everyone's lining up to take shots at him."

Herman paused, thoughtful. "Hard to judge when we weren't there. But do you really think an eight-year-old could set up her own teacher?"

Anastasia slid next to him, resting her head on his shoulder. "Whether she could or not, everyone's going to feel sorry for Layna. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I never got an honest vibe from that girl."

Herman nodded, lighting a cigarette. "If an eight-year-old can lie like that, just imagine what she'll be capable of when she's older."

really. They both knew not to judge without knowing the whole story, so they kept their

glancing at Herman, "I've been thinking about switching Pattie's school. I checked out

was actually thinking the same thing," Herman said, squeezing her hand.

finally relaxing. "Once Pattie's settled, I'll feel so much lighter. Honestly, I don't care if our kids

what parents really want-their kids safe

Herman curiously.

to back off for now. They just got back together-let's let that spark burn for a while, see what comes of

the fire, the more likely something big would

another drag from his cigarette. "How's your studio coming? Need any

Anastasia grinned. "Mr. Salstrom even invested, so that's one less thing to worry about.

workshop to save old folk crafts that were on the verge of disappearing. Young people these days just didn't have the patience for those intricate skills, and so

alive. Short

for free, sharing the wisdom

supported her all the