The Bond Between Us novel Chapter 526

Anastasia lingered at the doorstep with Pattie by her side, taking in the scene. She'd only heard snippets from Monica and caught a glimpse of the trending news online, but seeing it in person left her rattled.

Gianna was barely recognizable, her face, neck, and arms all wrapped in gauze. The severity of her injuries was glaringly obvious.

Cynthia's eyes welled up with tears. "Oh, Gianna, sweetheart, don't be scared. Mom's going to find you the best doctors. Don't worry, honey."

"There's no doctor who can fix my face now," Gianna said, her voice breaking. "I want Joey dead. It's the only way I'll ever feel peace."

Cynthia nodded, her voice filled with anger. "That no-good Joey. The police will make sure he pays."

Gianna tried to touch her face, but the fear of worsening her wounds held her back. She didn’t need a mirror to know that her face was ruined for good.

The more upset she got, the more she tugged at her bandages, which only amplified her pain and frustration, trapping her in a vicious cycle.

Anastasia overheard Gianna's agony but didn't go in. She walked away with Pattie, deciding that whatever happened to Gianna from here on out was none of her business. She wouldn't waste another thought on her.

Maybe, Anastasia thought, it was poetic justice.

Back in the hospital room, Gianna was a whirlwind of emotions, bordering on hysteria. She clung to Cynthia, sobbing, "Mom, it's all Anastasia's fault. She cursed me, I know it! She’s getting back at me for delaying her rescue and losing the baby. She hates me. She probably even sent Joey after me."

Gianna shifted the blame to Anastasia once again.

Colton walked in with some medication and caught the tail end of her tirade. "Gianna, why do you always blame others when things go wrong? Have you ever considered your own actions? I told you not to take things too far. You could've just divorced Joey and moved on, but no, you had to be ruthless. How could he not hold a grudge?"

Cynthia shot back, "How can you say that about our daughter? She's the victim here! Is Joey cheating somehow justified?"

"That's not what I mean," Colton said, frustration evident. "Joey's paralyzed and you threw his parents out, took their money. How did you expect them to survive? I always told you to show some mercy. But you, Gianna, you're beyond help now."