The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 153

I looked at Willow and asked, "What are you thinking?"

She softly said, "I just suddenly realized whether it's Zachary targeting me or Cody bullying me, it always seems like you and Daddy are the ones who step in to help me handle it. I've never really solved any problem on my own." Zane took Willow's little hand. "You're still a child. Of course, you can rely on adults."

He actually wished he could do more for Willow. After all, she would only be with him for about ten more years. When she went to college, she might go to another city. By then, he wouldn't be able to help her even if he wanted to. "But I will grow up," Willow said, sharing her thoughts. "So, I need to work hard to become independent now."

"To have such thoughts..." I focused on encouragement. "That means our Willow is growing up!"

Willow giggled. "But there's still one very important issue."

I asked, "Hmm?"

Willow's voice was soft and barely audible. "I can't talk to other people."

She tried so hard to make a change. When she saw Holly at kindergarten, she told herself to greet the latter politely. But even though her mouth opened, no sound came out.

might be easier if she talked to her classmates, so she tried to join in when they were talking. Unfortunately, no

feel Willow's disappointment, so I gently patted her back. "It's

Willow looked up. "Hmm?"

talk to dolls or toys?" If she could, my plan to use dolls to help guide

I looked at her.

gaze also fell on

for a long time before shaking her

meant that the plan we hadn't had a chance to

I remained silent.

also became

feared we'd misunderstood and hurriedly explained, "I don't know yet. I have to try at home to see if it

"Then, let's

Willow nodded. "Okay."

pinched Willow's nose. "Someday, you'll scare me

and complained to me, "Mommy,

swatted Zane's hand away. "Little kids