The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Cynthia paused her embroidery, glancing at Colton with a smug smile. "Of course I know."

"You know?" Colton was genuinely surprised. "How do you know? Who's Pattie's real father?"

are the debts we pay for past lives, let Anastasia pay hers."

Cynthia clenched her teeth with anger. "I'd rather die than tell that little troublemaker, Anastasia. Let her daughter carry the label of being illegitimate forever. I want to see how she holds her head up. When Pattie grows up and finds out, she might resent Anastasia. Kids "Lydia, what's happened to you?" Colton frowned, troubled by his wife's harshness.

"If you know who Pattie's real father is, just say it. Don't let Anastasia live with regret."

"Why should I make it easy for her? What did she do to our daughter? Colton, are you out of your mind, always siding with outsiders?"

"We both know why Gianna is where she is today. What has Anastasia done?" Colton's voice was serious. "A doting mother leads to a spoiled child. Gianna's mess is because of your coddling. She thinks she can have whatever she wants. Herman met Anastasia first, she's his wife. If Gianna had any shame, she wouldn't have had feelings for Herman."

Cynthia bristled, her voice rising with emotion. "Colton, our daughter is in prison, her life ruined. As her father, how can you be so cold? I'd rather die than tell Anastasia who Pattie's real father is."

Watching his wife's stubbornness, Colton sighed, "Just go back to your embroidery."

Leaving Cynthia to her thoughts, Colton walked out.

Cynthia sat in silence for a moment before picking up her needlework again as night fell.

Over at Salstrom Manor.noveldrama

Tonight, Katelyn decided to whip up a feast herself, inviting Herman and Anastasia for dinner.

Anastasia arrived early with Pattie, spending time at the manor's playground-a gift from Feiman for Pattie.

Pattie was having a blast in the ball pit while Anastasia watched nearby when suddenly a voice called out, "Anastasia, looking more stunning every day."

It was Joseph, his flippant tone instantly setting Anastasia on edge.

Anastasia frowned, choosing to ignore him.

But Joseph pressed on, sitting next to her with mock sympathy, "Such a shame, a bright young lady turned mute."

His words were meant to rile her up.

"Joseph, if you're that bored, maybe try lifting bricks at the construction site. If you can't say anything nice, then zip it," Anastasia shot back without hesitation.

"Hey, Anastasia, don't get mad. Just messing around," Joseph chuckled casually. "I really do admire you. Winning over Herman with an illegitimate child in tow takes skill. Too bad I didn't meet you sooner." Anastasia replied coolly, "Why not try building some good karma? Otherwise, you might not see the punch coming."

"Getting punched for you would be an honor..." Joseph started, but felt a sudden chill.

Turning around, he saw Herman standing right behind him, and his words faltered.

"Just joking around," Joseph quickly backtracked, "Can't we joke around in the Salstrom family?"

Herman's gaze was icy. "If you don't want to get hit, leave."

Joseph, always quick with his words, might not challenge Herman directly in business, but he never missed a chance to gloat over Herman's troubles.

With a sly smile, Joseph added, "Julie's been on the run for over half a year now, huh? No updates from the police? Their efficiency isn't exactly impressive, is it? Right under their noses and still no trace."