The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 108

Willow sniffled and said, "I just feel that you probably want to be Zachary's mommy again..."

Surprised, I asked, "What makes you think that?"

Willow stopped sobbing. "Because you gave birth to him."

That was when it hit me. Willow still felt insecure about this matter. Though we were close, any changes with Zachary made her nervous. She was afraid I would leave her.

While I thought about how to reassure her, Willow continued, "I know it's hard not having a mommy. But I feel so selfish for stealing someone else's mom."

Her voice trembled. "But I love Mommy so much. I don't want to give you back to him."

"You know what? It's alright to be a little selfish." I took her small hand as I spoke.

I told her gently, "You don't have to sacrifice your own happiness just because someone else is having a hard time."

Willow looked at me, confused.

I said with a smile, "I left Zachary because he hurt me. Whatever kind of person he becomes now doesn't change that.

"I'm your mommy because you love me and are good to me. That's why I want to be with you."

Willow asked eagerly, "So, you won't leave me?"

Her joy was contagious. "Never."

the bed excitedly before showering me

laughing and

Though she seemed to want to say more, sleep won out,

...

I

had fallen into this pattern

wanted to talk, he

room after she

swho

asleep.

him to the balcony and casually

against the railing, he

me. "We've paid

the

Check if you've received

it

wno

bank notification

the amount,

at my shock. "Is that not

him. "It's way

He chuckled. "Well, then..."

glanced away. "Since we pay so well, can we count on you if we need your artwork in