The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 518

"Okay," Zachary replied.

He picked up his utensils and ate intently.

Portia smiled fondly, adding more food to his plate.

Zachary glanced at her, Harry, and Hannah, and a profound sense of gratitude filled him. He realized there were still people who cared for him. He lowered his gaze and continued eating quietly.

...

Willow woke up in the morning and saw Annalise lying next to her. A serene smile spread across her face. She lifted her chubby hand and gently traced Annalise's eyebrows, her eyes, and the bridge of her nose.

She couldn't help but giggle. So this was what it felt like to have a mother. The thought of being able to look at Annalise whenever she wanted made her heart swell with warmth and joy.

Willow didn't bother getting dressed. Instead, she fixed her gaze on Annalise as she savored the rare moment they had to themselves.

I opened my eyes and saw Willow lying on her side, watching me intently.

"You're awake?" I asked.

said with a wide, toothy

kissed her good morning. She kissed my cheek

pulled away and said, "I have to get

in her voice, but it

rubbed her cheek affectionately. "Go

quietly slid on her little slippers, and headed to the bathroom, glancing back at me every few

still so young yet already so independent-waking

of emotions washed

been long, but

so self-reliant. Part

pride as I watched her grow, but another part

verne

swnov

feel

grow, and one day, she'd venture out to carve her

myself, then got up and

head out of the bathroom, her

"Okay," I responded gently.