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.

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

my computer but didn't start drawing immediately. Instead, I found myself reflecting on Willow's behavior these past few days-the way she set goals and knew what

Willow's

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

a purpose beyond simply recording life. I could use them

into my work with a new

...

her work, and it seemed to

from his desk and left the office, heading to the conference

smile to himself. Having worked

asked for is ready. The factory says it will be shipped

Zane nodded lightly. "Good."

ongoing projects within the

interested in the next

proposal has been finalized.

his fingers on the table and said, "Do you

proposal from his folder and handed

through it