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."

looked away. "Got

by saying, "T'll

perked up right away. "You want

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

want to take Zachary?"

So when Steven

just stand by and watch her go down the wrong path, right?" Jessica stayed silent.

him. He gently patted her hand before turning his gaze back ahead. When we got home, Willow set up a bunch of snacks and a fruit platter, though I was the one who washed

and sat where Willow pointed. She snuggled beside me, pulled out a

brought his laptop to the living room Maybe he couldn't resist the

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

smiled and took a bite, giving her a big hug

Willow

Time slipped aw