The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 58

Chapter 58

Zane passed the book he was holding to the cashier.

I held Willow's books and her hand, standing nearby as we waited. "You know, it just hit me that I haven't given Willow anything since I met her. So these books are my gift for her."

Zane didn't say a word. After paying, he took the books from my hands and headed to the car. Even though Willow couldn't read yet, she was curious about what was inside the books. She excitedly urged, "Daddy, let's go home and read!"

"Sure." Once we buckled our seatbelts, Zane quickly started the car and drove off.

Steven had grabbed the books the kids needed from a different bookstore. As he headed to his parents' place, a thought crossed his mind, and he turned to look at Jessica

Jessica noticed his gaze and raised an eyebrow. "What's going on? Is something up?"

"You said Annalise takes that little girl to kindergarten every day now, right?" Steven asked, deep in thought.

Jessica nodded. "Yeah."

away. "Got

he was finished when he surprised her by saying, "T'll take

right away. "You

back without missing a beat. "I'm done with her, so why would I

suddenly want to take Zachary?"

and Steven got together, she'd been the one driving the kids to and fro school. So when Steven suddenly offered to take Zachary, it was

by and watch her go down the wrong path, right?" Jessica stayed silent. Steven added, "But if I try to help her

up a bunch of snacks and a fruit platter, though I was the one who washed the fruit. Zane had the job of cutt She spread a small cloth on the carpet, laid out the food,

She snuggled beside me, pulled out

room Maybe he couldn't resist the peaceful vibe down here. He worked while keeping

and read stories to Willow while she happily munchied away and listened. Worried that I might strain my throat, she kindly held a piece

giving her a big hug

welcome," Willow replied

Time slipped aw