Chapter 376
Chapter 376
Anastasia understood Salma and Monica’s reservations, but she couldn’t just act oblivious in the face of information about her child.
Anastasia pressed her lips together and said, “I’ll go check it out first and make sure she’s my daughter before making any long-term decisions. Of course, if I do bring back a child, I’ll have to discuss it with the Salstroms first. I won’t act impulsively.” She now had to consider Herman’s feelings in every decision she made. Anastasia felt indebted to Herman, who had always stood by her, even when Grannie Anita was being difficult. She couldn’t possibly hurt him just like that.
Salma and Monica felt relieved hearing Anastasia’s words. They were just worried that Anastasia might bring a child home suddenly, which might upset the Salstroms.
Monica said, “I’ll drive you there.”
An hour later.
South Mountain Orphanage.
The director, Anthony, was a kind-hearted man in his fifties and was loved by all the children. All content © N/.ôvel/Dr/ama.Org.
Upon arriving at the orphanage, Anastasia explained her purpose, and Anthony handed her a file with a child’s information. “Ms. Jewell, take a look. We adopted this child four years ago, and it fits the description you gave,” Anthony explained. “She was brought here by a man who found her while collecting scrap. He intended to raise her himself, but perhaps found it too difficult and brought her to us instead.”
Anastasia listened while flipping through the file.
The file contained a photo of the child at four and a half years old. She looked quite different from the newborn in the photo Salma had shown her. The child in the picture had beautiful dimples, just like her own.
Monica was also looking at the photo, remarking, “She does have similar eyes.”
Hearing Monica’s words, Anastasia felt more confident.
“Anthony, where is the child now?” Anastasia asked urgently. “Can I meet her?”
Anthony handed her another file. “This is the address of the foster parents who adopted her.”
“Thank you, Anthony.” Anastasia couldn’t wait to meet her child. Holding the file, she and Monica set off for the child’s foster home.
As soon as they left, a man named Joseph emerged from a restroom in the back of Anthony’s office.
Anthony showed deference, saying, “Mr. Salstrom, everything has been done as you instructed.”
“You’ve done well.” Joseph placed a bank card on the desk. “Here’s three hundred thousand. If that woman comes again, do as I say.”
Anthony nodded respectfully. “Understood. But, if that child isn’t Ms. Jewell’s and they do a DNA test, won’t the truth be exposed?” “You don’t need to worry about that. Just do as I’ve told you, and you’ll be well compensated.” Leaving those words behind, Joseph strode out.
Unaware of the trap, Anastasia was on her way to the foster parents’ residence. Throughout the journey, Anastasia was excited yet nervous. Looking at the picture in the file; she said excitedly, “Monica, I owe this child so much. I don’t know what to say when I see her. I’m nervous. Should I buy her something? I wonder how she’s doing with her foster parents.”
“She’s almost five. She’s just a little girl. They usually love Barbie dolls and such cute toys. But it’s your first visit, and you still don’t know the situation. Maybe you shouldn’t buy anything yet.”
“Right, to avoid any misunderstanding with the foster parents.” Anastasia was worried. “I’m afraid the foster parents won’t let go.”
While they were talking, the car arrived at the residential area.
Monica parked the car by the entrance of the complex. They walked in and, following the address Anthony had given them, found the door of apartment 1102 in building 78.
Anastasia checked the address and rang the doorbell. Soon, someone opened the door. A little girl stormed out before Anastasia could see inside, nearly running into her.
The little girl shouted angrily at a man inside the house, “Go ahead, hit me! After all, I’m not your own daughter. My real parents will come for me sooner or later.”