The Bond Between Us novel Chapter 128

When Anastasia found out Herman had been playing her for a fool, all the sweet memories of the past seemed like a big joke to her. She had been an open book to him, but he had been on guard against her all along.

The deception left her heartbroken and confused. She didn't latch onto Herman for his house, but as his wife, she deserved to know the truth. The more she thought about it, the more upset she became. And just as she was about to head home, something caught her dress.

Looking down, Anastasia discovered a little girl hiding under the bench. That little girl was Pattie.

Pattie shyly looked at Anastasia, clutching tightly onto her dress.

Anastasia squatted down and asked, "Why are you hiding here, kiddo? Come out, you might bump your head."

Pattie didn't budge, shaking her head and staying mute. Unsure of what to do, Anastasia asked, "Are you playing hide and seek with other kids, sweetie?"

Pattie shook her head again, and just silently stared at Anastasia.

Seeing Pattie's eyes, Anastasia felt a deep sense of familiarity. "Could you tell me your name, sweetie, and where you live? Can I walk you home?"

At the mention of going home, Pattie reacted strongly, shaking her head and gripping Anastasia's dress even tighter.

Seeing Pattie's silence, Anastasia began to wonder if Pattie was mute. She looked around, but there was no one else in sight. Anastasia had no idea where this child came from.

Then, Pattie crawled out from under the bench, her big eyes fixated on Anastasia, one hand tightly holding Anastasia, the other on her stomach.

At first, Anastasia didn't understand what she meant, until she heard Pattie's stomach growl. "Are you hungry, sweetie?"

Pattie nodded. She hadn't eaten since last night and was running on an empty stomach.

"What's your name, sweetie?" Anastasia asked, her heart aching at the sight of the poor child.

Pattie had delicate features and was bound to be a beauty when she grew up. She was just too thin and looked malnourished.

Having eaten her fill, Pattie rubbed her belly contentedly. She was very attached to Anastasia and climbed onto her lap.

Anastasia was puzzled, and just as she was trying to understand what Pattie meant, she heard a soft voice say, "Mommy, I'm sleepy."

Hearing the word "Mommy," a special feeling stirred within Anastasia.

Looking down at Pattie, who was curled up in her lap like a pitiful kitten, Anastasia instinctively held her tighter and whispered, "Then have a good sleep, sweetie."