The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 121

Willow lifted her head, staring blankly at me.

I gently reassured her, "This way, we can directly ask the students what happened."

She still looked down, listless. "Actually, I wanted to ask them today, but I..."

She continued, "I just can't push myself to ask."

"It's okay." I understood. Given her condition, it couldn't be rushed. "We'll take our time. One day, you'll be able to do it."

Willow nodded earnestly with a hum.

In reality, what she hadn't told me was that she really envied those other children with friends.

Willow couldn't help but secretly wish she had a friend. If she could talk to others, she could probably make some good friends, too.

When Zane came back, he shook his head at me.

I felt a little heavy-hearted. It seemed like Holly didn't know the reason, either.

I held Willow's hand and led her to the car.

anyone except with me and Zane. Even if someone bullied

or middle school. She would likely be isolated and bullied without

soon as possible to prevent her from getting bullied in the

asked Willow, "How about we try

gathered her courage and said,

and said, "How about you say a

to ask, like, "Mr. Cruze, have you eaten?

her mouth opened, no sound came

immediately filled with

wanted her to get better. So, she felt like

I comforted her gently, "Look. You were willing to try. That's already

I encouraged her instead. She hesitantly

I reassured her, "Yes!"

brightened

...

road, watching the

crossed her arms and sneered, "Are

the supermarket earlier, and Steven had followed him. So, Jessica stayed behind to

of sight,