The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Zane didn't exactly answer me. He turned away, sounding somewhat uneasy. "I guess I've just gotten used to having time to ourselves every day. So it feels strange not being able to be with you alone." I took his hand and teased, "Well, if Willow wants me to sleep in her room next time, I'll tell her no and spend that time with you instead. How's that?"

Zane's eyes brightened with hope, and suddenly, I felt a pang of unease.

He paused for a beat, then shook his head. "No, I'm good with it. Anna, just knowing I still have a spot in your heart is all I need."

"Don't worry, Zane," I said, smiling as I turned to face him. "As long as you stay true to me, I'll always hold you close in my heart."

Zane pulled me into his arms. "I'm not some fool like Steven. You can trust me. I'll never betray you and will always treat you right."

I hugged him back, holding him for a few moments before letting go and heading back to my room to freshen up. Once I was done, I joined Zane and Willow downstairs.

Willow, who used to struggle to catch her breath after a short sprint, was now effortlessly leading the way, easing through the mile.

I jogged behind her, the sunlight casting a warm glow on her. She flashed me a wide grin, and I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride at how much she'd grown. After our run, I jumped in the shower and made myself comfortable in the living room.

Milton served Willow a bowl of chicken noodle soup, his tone casual as he said, "We're planning to take Willow and her friend out this weekend for a little fun."

I turned to Willow. "Do you want to go?"

She gave an excited nod. "Yes!"

"Okay, go ahead," I said before glancing at Milton. "Do you think I should come with you? Taking two kids out might be a lot to handle."

I was concerned it might be too much for him, given his age.

Milton shook his head. But before he could respond, Willow said, "It's okay, Mommy. You should stay home and get some good rest."noveldrama

With a maturity beyond her years, she held my hand and continued, "You've been through a lot recently both physically and emotionally, so you need time to recharge. And don't worry about Grandma and Grandpa."

вля

She looked up at me with a serious expression. "Penelope and I will make sure not to tire them out while we're having fun!"

I shot a concerned look at Milton.

"Don't worry, we'll be fine," he said.

"We'll just think of it as a little workout," Dorothy chimed in.

"Alright," I said, glancing over at Zane.

He held my hand beneath the table and quipped, "Seems like Willow's growing up. She knows when to step back and give us some time to ourselves." I tapped his hand, signaling him to tone it down.

Zane's eyes crinkled into a smile, and he nodded in response. "Let's dig in."

Jessica rose early, having breakfast with Cody before sending him off to schook with the help of a driver After he left, she was left alone in the house.

She curled up on the couch, deep in thought. How could she ruin Annalise's reputation when Casper refused to help? Her mind raced, and a plan soon began to take shape.

She stepped toward the floor-to-ceiling window and made a call. "I need someone kept under surveillance."

"Who?"

"Annalise Jamison," Jessica said, carefully enunciating each word.