The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

When Flynn signed the contract, he was sure everything was in order. But during the signing, the other party accidentally spilled wine on him. While he was in the restroom cleaning up, the contract got swapped. The changes were subtle but enough to be a trap-and Flynn fell right into it.

Herman didn't even feel like punching someone; it wouldn't solve anything.

"Because you felt sorry for them, you nearly got yourself in deep trouble, Flynn. I just don't know what to say to you. Your investigation caused Elysian Technologies' stock to nosedive. Do you even know how much we've lost? Have you done the math?" "Herman," Flynn mumbled, hanging his head in shame, aware he was to blame.

Thinking back, Flynn felt confused. Kayleigh had said all the right things, striking a chord in his heart and making him feel an instant connection.

What drew him to Kayleigh was her self-respect; she wouldn't compromise her dignity for a deal. Her integrity impressed Flynn, convincing him she was the right partner.

Unbeknownst to Flynn, Kayleigh was actually Julie, who knew him inside out and how to play him perfectly.

"Just stay home, don't go anywhere, and don't do anything. Reflect on this," Herman sighed, having lost faith in Flynn's business sense. If push came to shove, he might as well treat Flynn like another 'son,' letting him drift through life as a carefree rich kid, a lifestyle not uncommon in elite circles.

This lack of drive, just living off the family wealth with no ambitions, was something Flynn had inherited from Feiman. Without Herman stepping up, Elysian Technologies wouldn't be where it is today.

Flynn was like a kid being scolded by a parent, and Herman was too exasperated to say more.

Rubbing his head, Flynn said, "Herman, I'm really sorry. I guess business just isn't my thing. I'll stay out of company affairs from now on, so I don't cause you more trouble. Oh, and I heard from Mom that Pattie's been found and Anastasia's expecting. That's some good news, at least."

At least he had some self-awareness.

The only relief for Herman now was these two bits of good news.

He wasn't bothered about the financial losses; family was his priority.

"You're not getting any younger. I'll have a chat with Mom about finding you a wife to keep you in line, so I can worry less."

"Herman," Flynn said, looking downcast. "There's no rush."

He still wanted a few more years of freedom before settling down.

But a stern look from Herman made Flynn zip it.

When Herman got back to Southridge Estates around eleven, he found Anastasia still up, watching over the sleeping Pattie.

Trying not to wake Pattie, Herman quietly took off his coat and asked, "How was Pattie today?"

"She's been stable, no tantrums," Anastasia replied softly. "Herman, we should get Pattie a tutor."

"Alright," Herman agreed. "I'll find someone who knows sign language for her. Anastasia, everything will get better."

Anastasia spoke with a touch of resignation, "I've been thinking a lot these past few days. Dwelling on the past won't help. Having Pattie back is more than I could ask for. As long as we're together, there's always hope." During the months Pattie was missing, Anastasia was a wreck, plagued by nightmares of harm befalling her child. All she wanted was for Pattie to come back, to be safe.

Now that Pattie's home, what more could she want?

Accepting the unchangeable and making it up to Pattie was all they could do. As parents, they knew they had to be strong and set a good example for Pattie to have a brighter future.