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.

felt relieved upon seeing that Willow had made a friend and was getting along well. I

found myself reflecting on Willow's behavior these past few days-the way she set goals and knew what

for my next comic. I wanted to draw Willow's determination, hoping

I 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 be

into my work with a new

...

on her work, and it seemed to

stepped away from his desk and left

avoid disturbing Annalise and couldn't help but smile to himself. Having worked with Zane for years, it was surprising to see the usually stoic boss

file. "The custom plush toy you asked for is ready. The factory says it will be

Zane nodded lightly. "Good."

projects within the Huxman

be particularly interested in the next update,

been finalized. Only

the table and said, "Do you

request, Eric pulled the proposal from his folder and handed it to

skimmed through it