The Bound Between Us

Chapter 361

Anastasia’s joyous smile was a sight Herman couldn’t bear to tarnish with the harshness of reality.

Herman sat down beside the bed. His hand was resting gently on Anastasia’s belly. The thought of a tiny life growing inside her softened his heart.

Neither of them had ever anticipated such a surprise.

Anastasia even considered about IVF, never expecting that their child was already growing inside her. She held Herman’s hand. Her voice was soft. “Why do you look unhappy? What’s wrong?” She’d noticed the change in Herman’s mood.

“N-no, I’m happy.” Herman managed to squeeze out a smile. “You’re going to be a mom.”

Anastasia glanced at his face. Her voice was even softer. “Don’t lie to me. You’re worried about something. Did the doctor say my body isn’t suitable for carrying a baby? Did he give you a choice, to keep the baby or…?”

Anastasia knew her own body well. Today’s signs of a potential miscarriage only heightened the difficulty of a safe pregnancy.

Suddenly, Herman pulled Anastasia into a tight hug. His voice was hoarse. “Anastasia, whether we have a child or not doesn’t matter. All I want is you.”

He had made his decision.

Anastasia couldn’t blame him for his decision. She knew it must have been a painful one, a struggle for him. She wrapped her arms around Herman’s waist. Her voice was tender. “Honey, our baby chose us

to be his parents. Let’s not give up on him. Let’s try our best to ensure he’s born safely. I’ll follow the doctor’s orders. I’ll do everything to keep this baby. Let’s not give up on him just yet. Can we just try?” Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.

The pleading in her voice was unmistakable. She was begging him to hold onto their child.

Tears welled up in Herman’s eyes. He couldn’t bear the thought of Anastasia suffering. He didn’t have the courage to let her risk her life. But he also couldn’t deny her plea.

He knew how much Anastasia longed for this child. So did he.

This was his first child. Maybe his only child. What kind of father could willingly give up his own flesh and blood?

He was torn. Anastasia lifted her face to look at him. Her hands were cupping his face. “Smile, honey. We’re going to be parents. This is a joyous occasion. Our baby can sense our emotions. If he senses we’re not welcoming him, he’ll be upset. We’ve been able to save him this time. It means he’s meant to be with us. Trust me. I’ll be fine.”

“Oh baby,” Herman reached out to wipe away her tears. His gaze was softening as he looked at her belly. “Alright.”

As he agreed, Anastasia’s face lit up with a smile.

He understood her meaning. Even if it meant risking her own life, she was willing to carry their child. If Anastasia disagreed, he couldn’t force her to end the pregnancy. That would break her heart.

“Lay down and rest for a bit. I’ll call mom and ask her to pick up Pattie. You’ll need to stay in the hospital for observation. Don’t worry about anything. Leave it all to me, Herman reassured her. “We need to ensure proper nutrition, but not overdo it. We have to control the baby’s weight.”

Anastasia smiled. “Alright, I’ll listen to you.”

As Herman left the room to make a call, he saw Grannie Anita approaching. Upon seeing Herman, she asked, “What’s wrong with that woman? Is she faking it? I’ve always said she’s cunning, not as pure- hearted as Julie. She can’t even give birth to a child.”

Herman’s face darkened at Grannie Anita’s words. “Grandma, I expect you to respect Anastasia. She’s pregnant and weak, so she can’t handle stress. If you want to see your great-grandchild, watch your words.”

“Anastasia is pregnant?” Grannie Anita was incredulous. “But I heard she’s infertile. Are you two trying to deceive me, Herman?”