The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 110

It probably would not be long before Steven got tired of Jessica. He would then find an excuse to dump her.

No way! Jessica could not let that happen.

She made up her mind. She needed to find more ways to get close to Steven. This was the only way to stay in his life a little longer.

...

To help build Willow's strength, I woke her ten minutes early. Though sleepy, she got up without complaint.

We started with a few hundred yards of walking until she fully woke up, then began jogging. We would rest when she got tired, and then, we would repeat the same routine. After several rounds, Willow was completely spent. She was too exhausted to even walk. She collapsed on the grass motionlessly.

Knowing she was wiped out, I carried her back to her room. I helped her shower after she cleaned herself up a little.

Now dressed, Willow wisely declared, "I guess getting stronger isn't something that happens overnight."

I tapped her nose

fist, she said, "I'm going to be the strongest kid

"You sure will

headed downstairs. Spotting Zane in the living room, she tilted her head and asked, "Daddy, did you

brag. Playing along, he

proudly. "I've been up forever! Mommy

me

for you. Your health will be at stake." She took

heart.

looked at him earnestly and asked, "Okay, Daddy?" Zane stroked her soft hair.

with joy.

her breakfast after her mission was accomplished. Maybe it was the

waved, and she waved back until she disappeared into the building. I felt oddly empty once she was

en

to turn and leave, Zachary stood in my path. His usual impatience was replaced by a meek attitude. I stopped