The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 458

Zachary grinned as he explained, "It's because I want to stay ahead of other kids my age. Think about it-if I finish reviewing all the primary school material now, I'll have less pressure when I start school." Hannah had shared the idea with Zachary, who found them very convincing.

He continued, "While everyone else struggles to learn in primary school, I can move ahead and start preparing for middle and high school. It'll be much easier for me by the time I get there. While others are buried in books and stressing out at home, I'll already know everything and have plenty of time to play!"

Portia listened to his reasoning and couldn't help but smile. Oddly enough, Zachary's logic made sense.

She chuckled and said, "You've really matured."

Zachary simply smiled back, waved goodbye, and walked toward his bedroom.

Portia watched his figure disappear down the hallway.

What a thoughtful child. It was such a pity, though. If Annalise had been able to stay in his life, Zachary would have grown up to care for her so deeply.

A pang of regret hit Portia's heart. It seemed Annalise wasn't destined to have that blessing.

...

room, Zachary turned on the lights. One wall was covered with posters of Annalise,

he felt like his mother was with him,

than once, still felt a twinge

his desk and said, "Okay.

Zachary set down his backpack and switched on

called out, "Mom.

"I'm here."

small robot sitting on his desk responded, its gentle and calm voice

Zachary suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to

using

the recordings, they said to him,

She really did.

understand the depth of love in the words she had spoken to him as he listened to

food, warm clothes,

to the robot, "I'm going to start

same tone as Annalise's, "You're

puffed out his chest

this, Hannah couldn't help but sigh. Zachary was so pitiful. This was the only way he could still connect with his