The Bond Between Us ( Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 1193

In the little town of Phoenix, a bunch of friends spent their days running wild, laughing together, and, when night fell, heading over to a cozy riverside pub.

Herman was strict when it came to his kids’ education, but he wasn’t stuck in the past. He always said the more you try to control kids, the more rebellious they get. So he went with the flow, bringing his wife and kids to the pub by the creek, letting the breeze cool their faces as they just chilled out.

The adults sipped fruit wine, while the kids got the non-alcoholic treat—fresh juice. Folk music drifted from a corner of the bar, mixing with the chatter of passing tourists. Down by the stream, people were setting lanterns afloat and whispering their wishes into the night.

Andrew nudged Paradise. “Hey, wanna try making a wish with a river lantern?”

Paradise’s eyes lit up. “Yeah, let’s do it!”

“Come on.” Andrew, always the brave one, led the way. They waved to Herman and hurried off to the little stand by the water.

Each lantern cost thirty yuan. Andrew bought two, grumbling, “Total rip-off. These things cost pennies to make. Somebody’s getting rich off this.”

Paradise laughed and teased, “Seriously? Says the guy who just took a helicopter here, and now you’re whining about lantern prices?”

Andrew grinned. “That’s different. It’s not about being cheap or spending big. My dad says, ‘Never skip out on a small opportunity.’ You want to make big bucks? You start by stacking up the little ones. Sure, I’m no Justin when it comes to school, but I know a thing or two about making money.”

He puffed up a little, looking proud. “Doesn’t matter if it’s a tiny deal or a slim profit—do it right, and you’ll build a fortune.”

Paradise grinned, impressed. “Didn’t know you actually thought about all that.”

“Of course! I’m a Carter, after all,” Andrew declared, acting all smug.

Paradise set her lantern gently on the water and closed her eyes, making her wish. As always, she just wanted her family to be safe and happy.

Andrew squeezed his eyes shut, silently thinking: River spirit, when Paradise grows up, please let her become my wife. That’s all I want—don’t forget!

...

Port City.

The Wisman Family Villa.

After a long, exhausting day of studying, Justin finally took a shower and flopped down to relax. He glanced at his phone—already eleven at night. He wondered if Paradise was asleep.

He opened Facebook and immediately spotted a new post from Andrew. His brows knit together.

The butler left, closing the door quietly behind him.

Justin turned off his phone. He didn’t message Paradise.

He was leaving for England—three years away. When he got back, he’d be nineteen, she’d be sixteen. He pushed his feelings down; there was still time. They’d see each other again someday.

...

Riverdale.

Scott crashed at the office that night. He didn’t want to go home, and he definitely didn’t want to see Sandy.

Everyone else had left for the day. Only the light in his office was still on. Too restless to sleep, Scott kept working.

Suddenly, a noise made him look up—and he nearly jumped out of his skin. Someone’s face was pressed right up against his office window.

Under the harsh white light, the face looked freakishly pale, and with the rest of the figure lost in shadow, it was impossible to see any details. In the quiet of the night, it was downright eerie.