The Bound Between Us

Chapter 999

Juliana kept the secret to herself. Not even Scott knew a thing.

She told herself Layna was just a kid-kids make mistakes. Layna was such a good girl, too. Juliana was sure if Layna ever lied, it had to be because a teacher pushed her into a corner at school.

Once Layna was back with the Stranz family, she acted like the perfect little angel. No more getting into trouble, no more messes. And when they were alone, Layna would call Juliana "Mom" in that sweet, earnest voice, and Juliana's heart would just melt.

That's when Juliana decided Layna needed a new school. She set her sights on Maplewood Elementary-the most prestigious in all of Riverdale.

That night, when Scott got home, Juliana brought it up. "I found a school for Layna Maplewood Elementary. It's the best in Riverdale."

"No. Pick another one," Scott said, not even pausing to think. "Anywhere but Maplewood."

Juliana stared at him, confused. "Why? It's the best school! Layna's so smart. She deserves the best teachers and the best resources."

Scott sank onto the couch, rubbing his brow. "Paradise is going there. Herman told me he's enrolling her at Maplewood. Paradise and Layna don't get along. It's better for everyone if they're kept apart."

Juliana bristled. “So their daughter can go, but not Layna? She's your niece, Scott! Why are you siding with them? Layna is brilliant-she should have every opportunity."

Scott shook his head. "If Layna's got talent, she'll do well anywhere. The best school can only take you so far the rest is up to her. Layna's biggest problem isn't learning, it's her attitude. She's too ruthless. That won't get her far."

already? I think a little toughness is a good thing," Juliana shot back. "Layna

"Juliana, you're being unreasonable. I said no to Maplewood. Any other school, fine. I'm

they

the door, Layna had been listening, ear pressed to the wood, catching

the reason she couldn't go to the

of Paradise that

her uncle wouldn't let her go to Maplewood, either. Layna's competitive fire burned even hotter. Quietly, she

win Scott over. Layna ended up

quickly. Layna had her paperwork set.

to school that morning, ending up on the same

car ended up just behind

at the school gates, Paradise hopped out in

group of teachers came out to welcome Paradise— well, Herman had donated a

her window, Layna watched the picture-perfect family moment a happy, cozy scene that

to comfort her. "It's just a school, Cayna. Don't worry about it. Work hard, keep your grades up, and you'll get into any college you want. My Layna is

be number one, Aunt

to drive