The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 956

Justin was just curious, that’s all. Pattie was such a sweet, beautiful girl—why did she have to be mute? She seemed almost perfect, but fate had given her this one flaw.

Pattie shook her head, lost in the memory of being locked in the basement by Gianna. Her hands and feet tensed up on their own, a reflex born of fear—her body’s way of trying to protect itself.

Justin realized what was happening and didn’t ask any more questions. Instead, he changed the subject, trying to cheer her up. “Hey, your forehead’s almost back to normal. You’ll be able to go out soon. The birthday party’s about to start. Paradise, today’s your special day—you have to be happy, okay? Every birthday, every single day, you should be happy, really. Promise me?”

…

Layna, who had stormed out of the party in anger, hadn’t actually left. She was sulking in the backseat of the car, fuming and pouting.

Juliana finally tracked her down, her heart aching for Layna. “Layna, don’t be upset. Don’t let that mute girl get under your skin. It’s nothing, really.”

Layna was heartbroken, wiping her tears. “Aunt Juliana, Justin saw me rip the drawing. He saw everything. What if he doesn’t like me anymore? What if he hates me now? What am I supposed to do?”

“You’re still a kid—kids throw tantrums, that’s normal. When you’re older, nobody’s even going to remember today,” Juliana said, hugging Layna close. “Next time you see that mute girl, just keep your distance, okay? Remember, you’re going to marry into the Wisman family, so why bother with her?”

Layna pouted, jealousy plain on her face. “But Justin always defends her. He even gave her that drawing. He’s supposed to be mine—I don’t want him playing with Paradise.”

Juliana just saw all this as childish drama—nothing that wouldn’t be forgotten with time. When the kids were grown, the families would decide their futures anyway.

Juliana gently wiped Layna’s tears and coaxed her, “You’re such a pretty girl, Layna. When you grow up, you’re going to be a real beauty. With the friendship between the Stranz and Wisman families, don’t worry—I’ll have your uncle talk to Mr. Wisman when the time comes. You’ll get what you want.”

Layna perked up instantly. “Really?”

“She’s not going home,” Scott said stiffly. “I’ve had the butler pack her things. Tonight, she’s going to Windsor Academy. I’ve already spoken to the headmaster.”

“What?” Juliana’s voice shot up. “Scott, what are you talking about? You can’t send Layna to Windsor! That place is for troubled kids—Layna’s just fine. She doesn’t belong there!”

“She’s not fine,” Scott said sharply. “Look at the messes she’s made. If we don’t straighten her out now, she’ll be ruined—and she’ll drag the Stranz family down with her. I don’t care how much you spoil her, Juliana. This time, she has to go. I’ve already told the Salstroms. This is how we make it right.”

“She’s just a kid! Are the Salstroms really so petty? She’s only a child—how can they be so heartless?” Juliana was furious, her voice trembling with resentment. “They’re not innocent either. Look what they did to Layna—she’s the one who got hurt!”

Hearing the argument from inside the car, Layna started to panic. She didn’t know much about Windsor Academy, but Juliana’s reaction told her enough—it couldn’t be good.

Tears streaming down her cheeks, Layna pressed herself against the window and cried out to Scott, “Uncle, I’m sorry! Please don’t make me switch schools. Please don’t fight because of me. It’s all my fault. Uncle, I miss my mom. Paradise has her mom, but I don’t have mine anymore.”