The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 222

"It's me," came a reply from the doll.

Willow's mouth dropped open in shock as she heard Milton's familiar voice. Zane hadn't lied to her! The doll could actually talk!

Willow's eyes sparkled with excitement. She quickly turned to another doll. "Grandma?"

"I'm here," came the reply.

Willow gasped. "Wow! This is amazing!"

As soon as she spoke, laughter echoed from the dolls, so lifelike that it felt as if Milton and Dorothy were sitting right across from her.

Willow thought that since she was just talking to her dolls, no one else would know what she said. So, she cleared her throat and solemnly said, "I love you both very much." The two replied in unison, "We love you, too."

Feeling shy, Willow rocked back and forth on the bed. "I think it's been a long time since I last talked to you. Has it been two years? Maybe even three. But I actually have so much to tell you." "Then, go ahead," Milton encouraged her.

practice speaking in front of the mirror every morning. Sometimes, I run out of things

can read some simple books on

so long that my pronunciation is super clear now. The only thing

her chin proudly.

Back when some kids

Mommy stepped in for me.

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targeting me. I was stuck feeling miserable without being able to fight back. So, they hired a martial arts instructor

I get stronger, I can just knock down anyone who bullies me with one punch. That'll show them I'm not someone they can mess

she recounted, "They told me that's the best way to solve the

agreed wholeheartedly, "They're

start me on basic moves, but he realized I was too weak. So, he made me start

speaking and reading, go for a run. Now, Mr. Lardon says I'm fit

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