The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 744

Anastasia and Monica landed at Riverdale Airport that evening. Christen was there to pick them up, and as they pulled into Southridge Estates, Anastasia felt a lump in her throat at the sight of apple blossoms in the yard. Herman had planted them for her, knowing how much she loved them. He’d personally bought and planted each tree.

Now, the blossoms were in full bloom, but the person who promised to enjoy them with her was gone.

“Ana,” Salma called out, hearing the car engine stop. She rushed out, her face lighting up at the sight of Anastasia.

Anastasia turned, her voice hoarse, “Mom.”

“Look at you, you’ve lost so much weight,” Salma exclaimed, shocked by Anastasia's appearance. She looked gaunt, eyes sunken, skin pale and dry, lips chapped, her face dotted with blemishes. The healthy glow she once had was gone.

Salma’s heart ached.

“I’m okay, Mom,” Anastasia tried to reassure her with a smile, but it was so forced it only made Salma's heart ache more.

Monica chimed in, “Aunt Salma, let’s head inside.”

“Yes, yes, let’s get indoors,” Salma agreed, taking Anastasia’s hand and leading her inside. She turned her face away, wiping tears from her eyes where Anastasia couldn’t see.

Upstairs, Pattie was doing her homework. Hearing the commotion, she dashed down the stairs and, as soon as she saw Anastasia, burst into tears.

Pattie flung herself into Anastasia’s arms, terrified that her parents would never come back.

As Pattie cried, Anastasia cried too, holding her daughter tightly as they wept together.

Once the tears subsided, Anastasia gently wiped Pattie’s eyes. “There, there, no more tears. Mommy’s home now.”

Pattie’s eyes remained red as she signed, “Mom, I missed you and Dad. Is Dad back too?”

Mentioning Herman sent another pang through Anastasia’s heart. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. Mommy couldn’t bring Daddy back. I’m so sorry.”

Fearing the topic would upset Anastasia further, Monica stepped in. “Pattie, your mom’s very tired from the trip. How about you let her rest for a bit, and I’ll play with you?”