The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 1200

Mr. Walker broke down mid-sentence, tears slipping down his weathered cheeks. For decades, not a single tear had escaped him, but today, he couldn’t hold them back.

He’d spent years carrying this family, shouldering pressure without complaint. He’d long since given up hope for more children, but fate had surprised him with another chance. He thought life was finally showing him some kindness. In the end, though, it all became proof of his wife’s betrayal.

All that pride he’d clung to as a man—gone in an instant.

Autumn was shaken. She’d known Mr. Walker for nearly thirty years and never once had she seen him cry.

“Mr. Walker…” Autumn’s voice was thick with guilt. “I’m sorry. This is all my fault. I’ve let the family down.”

Mr. Walker covered his eyes with one trembling hand, quickly wiping away the tears before waving her off. “Enough. It’s almost morning. You should try to get some rest.”

But neither of them closed their eyes that night.

Mr. Walker wanted to be left alone with his thoughts. Autumn, wiping away her own tears, slipped quietly from the study. She wanted to ask about their son, but the words stuck in her throat.

As she left, Autumn noticed Shirley, the housekeeper, hovering outside the door. Surprised, she dropped her voice. “Shirley, why aren’t you in bed?”

“Ma’am, are you and Mr. Walker really moving back to the countryside?” Shirley asked, voice trembling. “What about me? Where does that leave me? Are you just going to leave me behind?”

Shirley was clearly panicked. She’d been with the family so long she felt like one of them. If Mr. Walker left, who would she even belong to anymore?

Autumn led her into a bedroom and motioned for her to sit before asking, seriously, “What did you hear just now?”

“I heard everything, ma’am. But don’t worry, I won’t say a word,” Shirley promised quickly. “But you can’t just leave me here. Wherever you go, I go.”

Autumn felt a wave of dread. Shirley knowing this much could be dangerous.

“Shirley, take it easy. If we leave, of course we’ll bring you along,” Autumn said, steadying her. “If you’re willing, I’ll think of you like a sister. But you can’t breathe a word about tonight. If anything gets out, the whole family’s finished.”

“Don’t worry, ma’am, I promise. My lips are sealed,” Shirley agreed, relieved. She still hoped Mr. Walker would accept her—maybe then she’d truly belong.

The days that followed were nothing but tension for Mr. Walker.

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