The Bound Between Us

Chapter 1011

Rowan's brows were so tightly knit, he looked ready to scowl forever. He really couldn't figure Hanna out.

Didn't she used to like loquats?

He walked over and, stubborn as ever, said, "But last time, I saw you eat them."

Hanna just stared at him, completely fed up.

Was he seriously this clueless? How many times did she have to say it?

"I don't like them anymore," she snapped, her voice icy. She started laying out her herbs with more force than necessary, as if each movement could shake off her annoyance.

"Oh."

Rowan's reply was flat, and without another word, he just turned and walked away.

Hanna glanced back at him, somehow even more irritated now.

That afternoon, Anastasia went to pick Pattie up from school.

When the bell rang, she parked her car by the crowded gates-parents everywhere, cars packed bumper to bumper. She left the car and made her way

to the entrance.

Pattie came out soon after, walking with another little girl.

As soon as Pattie saw Anastasia, her whole face lit up. "Mom! Mom! You came to get me today!"

it was

Anastasia said, grinning. "How was your

got a perfect score!" Pattie said, beaming. Then she added,

like a total straight-A kid, and she greeted Anastasia politely,

say goodbye to your friend. Let's head home-it's busy here, and

Pattie waved. "See you tomorrow,

See

hugs and goodbyes done, Anastasia helped Pattie into the car and drove

since she'd started

real friend. She has a big sister

Carli?

rang a bell for Anastasia. She remembered during the whole Mr. Simmons situation, the little girl who identified

been sent to St. Vincent's for being a bit of a rebel After the Mr. Simmons

with a patient smile. Suddenly, Pattie piped up, "Oh! Mom, we're having

the schacross

the street tomorrow!"

belongs to s

"A competition?" Anastasia asked.

class is

day? What event are

Pattie declared, clearly proud. "Coach Dailey says

learning kung fu from Dailey for a while, and honestly, she really

go watch you compete! This

I'll tell him

gentle squeeze Nothing at work is

She kissed Anastasia's cheek. “Mom, I