The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 186

Sasha narrowed her eyes and studied Zane, her face filled with wariness. She had been planning to set aside the heavy conversation and just go out and relax with Annalise. But why was Zane stopping them? Zane raised a finger and lightly tapped on the desk in front of him, calmly considering how to respond.

Right now, Annalise and Sasha were on good terms, so Annalise would definitely prefer to go out for lunch with Sasha. Zane didn't really have a solid reason to stop them.

The best he could manage was to try to tag along with them.

After a moment, he seemed to come to a decision and smiled-though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "You two don't even know where the good restaurants are. Besides, neither of you is exactly rolling in cash." He paused, then smoothly said, "So, let me treat you."

Sasha didn't even try to hide her dislike, but after thinking about it for a moment, she realized Zane had a point.

"Fine," she conceded reluctantly.

Zane gathered his things and led the way, walking confidently ahead.

As they stood in the elevator, Zane couldn't help but glance at Sasha. Honestly, the more he spent time with her, the more he felt she was starting to interfere with his time with Annalise.

Sasha noticed the look and gave Zane a glare, clearly annoyed.

...

Zane and tapped my chin as I

days ago? What had changed? Now, it seemed like she could barely

frankly, I didn't want

at the restaurant. Zane took the menu and quickly ordered a few of

came to food,

the center, her body nearly pressed against mine. Her voice became overly sweet, almost sickeningly so. "Do you like spicy food, or do you prefer something milder?" Was she really thinking about me? Was she worried I wouldn't be able

said, "Anything's fine.

Since it was Zane's treat, Sasha didn't order too much just a couple of dishes-and then turned to chat with me, thanking the waiter

tried to start a conversation several times. But each time,

and Sasha. It was pretty clear now that Sasha

the other hand, Zane kept taking the hits in stride. After a few failed attempts to engage, he finally just

like she

was the first time I had seen him make such a face. I couldn't help but find

it anyway. "Are you

tried to press my lips into a straight line.