abcnovels
Chapter 384
Chapter 384
Chapter 384
Chapter 384
Penny suddenly gripped Layna’s arms and her voice was strained with urgency. “Is your mother’s name Anastasia?”
Penny’s abruptness startled Layna and her face was paling in fear. “Let go of me, you lunatic!” Layna cried out, struggling to free herself. Penny’s eyes were blazing as she said, “I know where your mother is. I’ll take you to her.”
At those words, Layna finally quieted down, her fear forgotten. She gazed at Penny, her voice filled with hope. “You know my mother?”
Penny gritted her teeth. “I’d recognize her no matter where she goes.”
Layna was dismissive, her tone imperious. “Then take me to her now. My mother is beautiful and wealthy. I’ll have her reward you once we get there.
Anastasia had just put Pattie to bed when she heard a noise at the door. Carefully tucking Pattie in, she got up to investigate.
As she reached the living room, there was a knock on the door.
Anastasia went to answer it. It was Herman. She asked, “You’re back early. Did you forget your keys?”
you eat dinner?”
“I did.” Herman entered the house, shutting the door behind him. “I rushed back as soon as I finished my work. How was your day? Did “Not much, just half a bowl and some fruit.” Anastasia laughed. “I’m eating smaller portions more frequently. I am not overeating.” “We have your prenatal check-up next Wednesday morning. I’ve cleared my schedule for it.” Herman took Anastasia’s hand. “Your health
comes first.” “You don’t have to exhaust yourself for me,” Anastasia said with concern. “My mom can accompany me. I’m not that delicate.”
“I will be there for every prenatal check-up, no exceptions,” Herman said with a smile. “You women have a knack for holding grudges, especially during pregnancy and confinement. I must make a good impression.”
Anastasia laughed. “You’re exaggerating.”
As Herman changed his shoes, Anastasia sat down on the foyer bench. “Herman,” she hesitated. “There’s something i need to tell you.” “What is it?” Herman asked.
“It’s about that child. We may have found her.” Anastasia chose her words carefully. “The orphanage director called me. I met the child and had a DNA tes done. We’re waiting for the results.”
Anastasia spoke gently, and Herman listened attentively. After she finished, he looked at her, understanding what she was implying.
Herman considered for a moment. “We’re moving to Southridge Estates the day after tomorrow. The house is big enough. If the DNA test confirms it, bring the child home.”
It wasn’t that he was generous, but he didn’t want to cause Anastasia any distress. It was a “Love me, love my children” situation.
Anastasia was touched. “Herman, I’m sorry. I owe you so much.”
She didn’t know what else to say. Meeting Herman was the best thing that had ever happened to her.
Just as Herman was about to respond, there was another knock at the door. Who could be visiting at this hour? The two exchanged a glance, and Herman got up to answer the door. A little girl stood there, a backpack slung over her shoulders.
Herman looked at her, his expression cool. “Can I help you?”
The little girl was Layna.
Penny had brought her to Anastasia’s house, hiding in an alley nearby to watch.
Layna looked up at him. “I’m Layna. I’m looking for my mother. This is her house.”
Inside the house, Anastasia’s heart skipped a beat. She came out, disbelief etched on her face. When Anastasia saw Layna at the door, she was taken aback. “How did you find this place?”
Layna’s face lit up with a smile. “Mom, I finally found you.”
Herman, fearing the little girl might hurt the child in Anastasia’s belly, instinctively pulled Layna away. It was a reflex action, although he never had this concern when Pattie rushed into Anastasia’s arms.
Layna, being pulled back, was instantly displeased. She glared at Herman, her voice full of hostility. “Who are you? Let go of me.”