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.

with anyone except with me and Zane. Even if someone bullied

elementary or middle school. She would likely be isolated and bullied without knowing how to speak up for

to guide her and help her get better as soon as possible to prevent her from getting bullied in the

tentatively asked Willow, "How about we try talking to others

gathered her courage and said,

said, "How about you say a

many questions she wanted to ask, like, "Mr. Cruze,

mouth opened, no sound came

were immediately filled with

I wanted her to get better. So, she felt like she had let me down.

You were willing to try. That's already

I would be disappointed, but I encouraged her

I reassured her, "Yes!"

brightened up

...

road, watching the car disappear into

and

and Steven had

car was out of sight, Zachary slowly answered,