The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 475

When Salma heard the words "firing squad" or "twenty years," her world spun, and she nearly passed out. Lost in her worries and sorrow, she didn't notice the small figure crouched on the staircase.

Pattie had been there for a while, overhearing the conversation between Cynthia and Salma. Murder, sentencing, prison, execution... These words, strung together, were clear enough for five-year-old Pattie to grasp the situation. Mommy was in trouble, Mommy was going to be executed, Mommy could die.

Clutching her stuffed animal tightly, Pattie slipped out the side door, unnoticed by Salma. She was determined to find Daddy to save Mommy.

Anastasia, detained and oblivious to the uproar surrounding Grannie Anita's murder, didn't know how many people genuinely cared or were merely pretending. Thanks to Herman's intervention, Anastasia's conditions in the detention center were relatively good: a private room with heating, a soft bed, and even fresh fruit.

Resting against the bedpost, Anastasia looked up at the ceiling with an unexpected calm. She didn't protest or defend herself, quietly waiting for the judgment. After so long feeling agitated, she now found peace. She had avenged her child and had no regrets.

"Anastasia, you've got a visitor," called the guard outside as the iron door swung open. Turning her head, Anastasia saw Monica rushing in and embracing her.

"Ana, why'd you have to be so damn foolish? You scared the hell out of me. For a dead Grannie Anita, you've risked your life—it ain't worth it."

Anastasia hadn't expected Monica to be the second visitor. Monica had ten minutes, secured through signatures and money. Anastasia forced a smile. "I thought I might not see you again. Just seeing you one last time makes it all worth it."

"Don't talk nonsense about dying; it's not happening. I'll get you the best lawyer, Ana. I won't let you die," Monica clung to Anastasia, her heart filled with reluctance and worry. "I'm going to the Salstroms. I'll beg Herman; he loves you too much to let something happen to you. Besides, this mess started with the Salstroms acting unjustly."

"And you're still thinking of him? What did he say? Did he come to see you?"

Anastasia nodded, her throat bitter. "He came. He said he'd find a way to get me out, but I don't want him to. From the moment I wanted to kill Grannie Anita, I knew it was over with him. It won't be easy for him to save me; he'd lose everything..."

"You're being foolish," Monica couldn't understand Anastasia's reasoning. All she wanted was for her friend to be safe.

Anastasia just smiled bitterly, leaning against the cold wall, ready to put an end to everything there.