The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 176

"Since I know where her problems lie, of course I'll let her know directly," I said, looking incredulously at Zane. "Compared to having her glued to my side all the time, I'd rather hope for her to do well in life. "Whether it's in terms of enjoying her career or just life in general, as long as she's happy, that's enough for me."

Zane raised a surprised eyebrow, asking doubtfully, "Really?"

I returned his question with one of my own, "What else are you expecting?"

He fell silent for a while before answering, "You're right."

Zane had to have lunch with his business partners today. He even asked if I wanted to tag along, but it wouldn't be convenient for them to discuss business matters with an outsider present, so I turned down his offer.

...

Zane felt that it was quite a shame that Annalise wouldn't be joining him, but he still headed for his appointment alone.

The meeting place was at a nearby restaurant that mainly served dishes light on the stomach.

Steven had evidently arrived some time ago.

was going through the menu. He lacked the warmth he displayed when

asked calmly, "Have you decided on

guest," Steven replied, handing him the menu. "Of course, you should be the one

the person he wanted to see was absent, Steven leaned back

him, replying, "She doesn't

possible?" Steven retorted without even a moment's thought. "She never cooked heavy dishes even when she was at home

you think it's because she liked to eat light dishes

yet another

full of ridicule. "Seriously, who would've thought that after being married to Annalise for so many years, you still

elegantly closed the menu

taking her to eat at different places all this while, but

when we're alone, she very

even noticed her efforts." Steven's expression turned darker and darker, but he was unwilling to admit that he had

but you didn't even bring her along to meet with your business partner, either. Doesn't that just show

scoffed, replying, "You certainly make it sound as if you two

not at all angry. "As long as I'm willing to put in the effort, she'll fall for