The Bond Between Us ( Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 1171

Kids these days—you can’t yell at them, can’t spank them. They’re so independent, always coming out with the wildest things.

He’s just a little guy, and already wants his own place.

Anastasia couldn’t help but picture the future: when her son grows up, he’ll want to move out, find his own apartment, and only call home when he needs cash. If he doesn’t need something, he’ll probably go weeks without picking up the phone.

Herman didn’t rush to scold their son. Instead, he grinned and said, “Look at you! Wanting your own place already. Your mom and I are so proud—you’re independent, and you even want to build your own house!”

With his dad’s praise, Nancy’s mouth stretched into a sneaky smile. He looked around, making sure no one caught him grinning. That little face, those secret glances—adorable didn’t even cover it.

Then Herman switched gears. “But what are you going to do if you don’t have money? Who’s going to cook for you? Aren’t you scared of sleeping alone? And if you run into someone bad, can you protect yourself?”

Nancy’s smile disappeared. He listened seriously, his little expression saying, ‘That actually makes sense.’ He glanced at Anastasia, wanting to cave, but his pride wouldn’t let him. With a dramatic huff and a pout, he said, “I can knock out a bad guy with one punch.”

Anastasia didn’t bother listening to Herman’s roundabout lessons. She just went upstairs.

Carter, meanwhile, was pretty amused. He sat down, watching Herman talk to his son, surprised to see this softer, patient side of the guy who was always all business outside.

Carter thought back to when his own son was little and naughty—he’d just give him a quick smack. It never helped. If anything, it made the kid tougher and even more mischievous. Now the boy was in middle school and still giving him headaches.

Herman pulled Nancy into his arms. “So, did you just use your fists on your mom? Nancy, that’s not right. A boy’s fists are for protecting his family—scaring off the bad guys.”

Nancy nodded, thinking it over. “Okay, I won’t hit Mom anymore. Jeez, she says it once, you say it once—one time’s enough, you know.”

Even when giving in, Nancy had to put on the toughest act.

He still looked annoyed, convinced both parents were ganging up on him. As he spoke, he rolled his eyes, his chubby cheeks making him look both adorable and exasperating—all at once.

“Alright, Dad won’t say anything more,” Herman said. “Go upstairs, make up with Mom, and apologize.”

“I’m not apologizing,” Nancy insisted, but even as he said it, his little legs were already stomping up the stairs.

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