Herman managed to track down the taxi driver, and through a phone call, he was able to confirm that Layna was indeed a passenger who had been dropped off at Harmony Meadows. This meant she had disappeared after entering the gated community.
Though Layna wasn't his biological daughter, the thought of Pattie being abandoned by that cold-hearted child was intolerable. He couldn't just let it go; he had to involve Dailey to search for her.
Anastasia was a whirlwind of emotions, feeling somewhat ashamed to face Herman. Her daughter, her own flesh and blood, was capable of such cruelty. She was too young to be fighting for attention in such a horrifying way. Anastasia feared what might happen once the baby she was carrying came into the world, what Layna might do then.
She had spent the day trying to teach Layna some sense, hoping the girl would change. But by evening, Layna managed to lure Pattie out.
Salma, who had been out searching for Pattie, rushed back home upon hearing the news of her return. Upon seeing Pattie, Salma expressed her relief, "Thank heavens you're back, Pattie. You scared Granny half to death. Why would you run off without a word?"
"I'm sorry, Granny." Pattie knew she was at fault. She hugged Salma, and her small hands gently patted Salma's back.
This heartfelt gesture melted Salma's heart instantly. "It's alright, darling. You're back, and that's what matters. Where's your sister?"
Pattie replied in a soft voice, "She is missing."
Salma turned to Anastasia and Herman, "Where's Layna?"
Anastasia answered worriedly, "We're still looking for her."
Herman said, "Anastasia, you and Pattie should rest. Mom, you too. I'll let you know as soon as we find her." It was getting late, and Herman was concerned about Anastasia's health.
Anastasia couldn't sleep as she was too worried about Layna's safety. But she didn't want Herman to worry, so she took Pattie back to their room to rest.
Pattie asked, "Mommy, will my sister come back?"
"We'll find her," Anastasia reassured. "Go to sleep now, Pattie. Mommy needs to make a call."
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Bound Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)
Pls update. This novel is really good....