The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 1143

The christening was coming up fast.

Autumn’s fear of Mr. Walker only grew as the day approached. By now, Anastasia barely registered in her mind—she was too busy just trying to keep herself together.

The night before the christening, Mr. Walker came home early. The first thing he did was head straight upstairs to check on his son, toy in hand.

Nanny Shirley cradled the baby, a sweet smile on her face. “Shawn, look what Daddy brought you—a rattle! Do you like it?” Her voice softened naturally as she spoke, warmth radiating from her.

The baby, almost a month old, was filling out, cheeks getting rounder by the day—adorable, the kind of cuteness that made everyone want to hold him.

Mr. Walker seemed genuinely pleased with Shirley’s affection for the child. He handed her the rattle, saying, “Looks like Shawn really likes you.”

Shirley grinned. “He’s such an easy baby. Out of all the little ones I’ve watched, he cries the least and smiles the most. He’s a joy—so easy to love.”

“Is that so?” Mr. Walker gave his son a complicated look. The kid wasn’t his by blood, and that thought always twisted something inside him.

He was old enough now to find babies endearing. But every time he remembered what Shawn represented—a living reminder of Autumn’s betrayal—he felt a sharp, stubborn ache.

Autumn came downstairs, catching sight of Shirley and Mr. Walker together, laughing over the baby. The scene hit her like a cold draft—too easy to see something more in it.

Shirley spotted Autumn and quickly took the hint. “Mr. Walker, Mrs. Walker, I’ll take Shawn up for his nap.”

Mr. Walker smiled. “Go ahead. Thanks for everything. Oh, and Shirley—you’re coming to the party tomorrow. I got you a dress. Try it on, see if it fits.”

He grabbed a shopping bag off the couch and handed it to her, making sure Autumn saw the whole thing.

It was deliberate—no question. Mr. Walker wanted Autumn to notice.

Shirley looked mortified, torn between taking the bag or leaving it. She shot Autumn an apologetic glance, but with Mr. Walker still holding the bag out, she had no choice but to accept it. “Thank you, Mr. Walker.”

“You’re welcome. Get some rest.” He didn’t look at Autumn, not once.

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