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 her,

difficult to enter elementary or middle school. She would likely

her get better as soon as possible to

Willow, "How about we

courage and

to Richard and said, "How about you say

ask, like, "Mr.

even though her mouth opened, no sound

were immediately filled

like she had let me down. "I'm sorry,

"Look. You were willing to try.

thought I would be disappointed, but I encouraged her

I reassured her, "Yes!"

mood brightened

...

of the road, watching the car

and sneered, "Are

supermarket earlier, and Steven

the car was out of sight,