The Bound Between Us

Herman hated the idea of Anastasia ever feeling hurt or unappreciated.

She could read him like a book. She brushed a kiss over his lips and grinned, "Thank you, hubby. You're so sweet. I must've saved the whole galaxy in my last life to land a treasure like you. With you around, I never feel put out."

Herman sighed quietly. What could he do with her? He could only spoil her, give in to her every whim. He knew exactly what she was thinking. That's what marriage is-understanding each other, being on the same wavelength.

Herman wasn't the type to fly off the handle or do something reckless just to vent, ignoring the fallout. His eyes were full of affection as he said, "Go ahead and get some sleep. I'll take a shower and give Mr. Walker a call."

"I'll be waiting in bed for you. I already showered." Her words were soft and full of promise.

The hint was loud and clear.

She was craving a little more than just sleep.

"Alright, I'll take care of you soon." Herman tucked the blanket snugly around her. "Just wait for me."

He headed to the bathroom, ran a bath, and while he soaked, he called Mr. Walker.

He didn't bother with small talk, just said, "Mr. Walker, I'm counting on you to look out for Mrs. Walker. You care about her so much, I'm sure you'll keep her well in hand."

There was a double meaning there—not just care, but also keep an eye on her. The Walker house.

Walker had just gotten home and was still wondering how to get Herman to loosen up. The phone call

were a stand-up guy. If you ever need anything, just let me know," Mr.

other hand, didn't feel much

out. "You're back! It's so late. Why did you go out for coffee with Herman? If you

was, Autumn was desperate to know what he and Herman had talked about, but she wouldn't ask

Sharp, steady. Autumn, if our kid turns out half

at the praise. "You're making him sound

his jacket and gently rested his hand on her belly. "Focus on the baby. It's time to let go of thoughts that don't belong.

she wouldn't get it,

to stop obsessing over

Walker, who never played favorites, was already bending the rules

but he needed Autumn to quit stirring

"What do you mean, not live for

gone." Mr. Walker's voice grew firm. "I've had Julie's case

fair

illness in

cancer before

in. Her fate was her own

belongs to s