The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman) novel Chapter 999

Juliana kept the secret to herself. Not even Scott knew a thing.

She told herself Layna was just a kid—kids make mistakes. Layna was such a good girl, too. Juliana was sure if Layna ever lied, it had to be because a teacher pushed her into a corner at school.

Once Layna was back with the Stranz family, she acted like the perfect little angel. No more getting into trouble, no more messes. And when they were alone, Layna would call Juliana “Mom” in that sweet, earnest voice, and Juliana’s heart would just melt.

That’s when Juliana decided Layna needed a new school. She set her sights on Maplewood Elementary—the most prestigious in all of Riverdale.

That night, when Scott got home, Juliana brought it up. “I found a school for Layna—Maplewood Elementary. It’s the best in Riverdale.”

“No. Pick another one,” Scott said, not even pausing to think. “Anywhere but Maplewood.”

Juliana stared at him, confused. “Why? It’s the best school! Layna’s so smart. She deserves the best teachers and the best resources.”

Scott sank onto the couch, rubbing his brow. “Paradise is going there. Herman told me he’s enrolling her at Maplewood. Paradise and Layna don’t get along. It’s better for everyone if they’re kept apart.”

Juliana bristled. “So their daughter can go, but not Layna? She’s your niece, Scott! Why are you siding with them? Layna is brilliant—she should have every opportunity.”

Scott shook his head. “If Layna’s got talent, she’ll do well anywhere. The best school can only take you so far—the rest is up to her. Layna’s biggest problem isn’t learning, it’s her attitude. She’s too ruthless. That won’t get her far.”

“She’s eight, Scott! You expect her to be perfect already? I think a little toughness is a good thing,” Juliana shot back. “Layna belongs at Maplewood.”

Scott’s patience snapped. “Juliana, you’re being unreasonable. I said no to Maplewood. Any other school, fine. I’m tired. I’m going to shower.”

He left before they could argue anymore.

Outside the door, Layna had been listening, ear pressed to the wood, catching every word.

Once again, Paradise was the reason she couldn’t go to the best school.

Last time, it was because of Paradise that Aunt Anastasia sent her away.

Now, because of Paradise, her uncle wouldn’t let her go to Maplewood, either.

The Stranz car had to drive ahead to make a U-turn.

Layna’s new school—Riverside—was just across the street from Maplewood. The only thing between them was a busy intersection.

Layna climbed out, shouldered her backpack, and walked into school by herself.

Compared to Paradise’s big welcome, Layna’s arrival was quiet. No teachers, no principal—just the usual morning crowd.

And after the whole Mr. Simmons incident, none of the teachers in Layna’s class wanted to get close. Not too friendly, not too distant—just careful.

Only teachers could really understand what Mr. Simmons had gone through.

They were all a little afraid of this “little troublemaker,” worried that if they upset her, they might end up like him.

So even when Layna didn’t do her homework or nodded off in class, no one said a word.