The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 30

Chapter 30

Steven was barking through the phone. When I glanced at my screen, I suddenly realized I hadn't blocked his number yet.

"What were you expecting?"

se you didn

didn't pick him up, he waited alone outside t

the

Angered by how nonchalant I sounded, Steven snarled, "Did you know? Because kindergarten. He got home at 9:00 pm."

Treplied calmly, "Mr. Pelham, but I think you're blaming the wrong person Jessica is his mother now. And I..."

I got up and walked out to the balcony. I looked into the distance and saw the starry skies and city lights.

"I'm just a stranger."

a deep breath and said,

need for me to be tied

his number. Suddenly, somebody knocked on my door. I opened the door to find Willow

had dessert, so she must brush her teeth tonight. I woke her up, but... She

was embarrassed, too. She said, "My friends say that their Mommy will brush their teeth with them. But My

her wish. I said, "Do you want to brush your teeth in my

up and said, "In

at me

she ran back to her bedroom to collect her cup and toothbrush. She ga eyes. I casually put her bunny doll aside and

her a stool. After thanking him, Willow stepped onto the stool and

her mouth bigger. I played along with Willow's childish

said exaggeratedly, "Wow, they're so

proudly raised her chin and said,

an urge to rub Willow's cheeks when I saw her proud expression, but I controlled myself. I said, "Good

her toothbrush and stole several glances at me. She couldn't hide her expression, but