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

thought he was finished when he surprised her by saying,

perked up right away. "You want

missing a beat. "I'm done with her, so why would I want to

why do you suddenly want to

and Steven got together, she'd been the one driving the kids to and fro school. So when Steven

Jessica stayed silent. Steven added, "But if I try to help her and she ignores me, then whatever happens next is on her." Jessica finally eased up.

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, and then pointed to a spot next to it. "Mommy, you sit

where Willow pointed. She snuggled beside me, pulled out a picture book,

supposed to be working upstairs but brought his laptop to the living room Maybe he couldn't resist the peaceful vibe down here. He worked while

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

bite, giving her a big hug

Willow replied

Time slipped aw