The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 173

"But to me, teaching you to read is resting," I told Willow gently. "Do you understand?

"So, don't worry. You won't wear me out. Mommy isn't that fragile."

Willow still looked uncertain. "Really?"

I nodded. "Of course."

Finally reassured, Willow smiled, grabbed my hand tightly, and pulled me outside to join her for a run.

Zane followed behind us. His usually cold gaze softened with a hint of warmth.

...

After our exercise, we all freshened up and then took Willow to school. She entered the school gates but didn't head straight for the classrooms. Instead, she stood at the entrance, as if waiting for someone.

A few minutes later, a girl with pigtails got out of a car. Willow immediately ran over to her. The two girls held hands and bounced around happily.

The little girl was chatty, talking nonstop, while Willow listened coolly, responding with occasional nods or shakes of her head.

friend and was getting along well. I got back into the car with Zane,

didn't start drawing immediately. Instead, I found myself reflecting on Willow's behavior these past few days-the way

gave me an idea for my next comic. I wanted to draw Willow's determination, hoping

could help others find clarity and purpose within themselves for them to see through their

simply recording life. I could use them to inspire people to

into my work with a new sense of focus

...

was on her work, and it seemed to put him at ease,

stepped away from his desk and left the office, heading

Having worked with Zane for years, it was surprising to see the usually stoic

custom plush toy you asked for

Zane nodded lightly. "Good."

on the significant partnerships and ongoing projects

would be particularly interested in the

finalized. Only minor adjustments are

"Do you

pulled the proposal from his folder and

through it and then