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.

upon seeing that Willow had made a friend and was getting along well. I got back into the car with Zane, and we

drawing immediately. Instead, I found myself reflecting on Willow's behavior these

gave me an idea for my next comic. I wanted to draw Willow's determination, hoping it would inspire others who

purpose within themselves for them to see through their

could have a purpose beyond simply recording life. I could use them to inspire people

my work with a new sense

...

noticed how focused Annalise was on her work, and it seemed to

in, Zane stepped away from his desk

smile to himself. Having worked with Zane for years, it

plush toy you asked for is ready.

Zane nodded lightly. "Good."

significant partnerships and ongoing projects within the Huxman Group, Zane listened with his

be particularly interested in the next

finalized. Only minor adjustments

table and said, "Do you have a copy? Let me take

proposal from

it and then looked