The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 542

Jessica considered her options and decided her best bet was to provoke Steven. After all, she couldn't win over Zane, and patching things up with Casper would take time. Neither of them could bankroll her lifestyle. Unfortunately, her dependable cash source-Steven-was slipping out of her grasp. But she could still manipulate him into willingly spending on her with a few calculated moves.

Her eyes glinted with an idea as she picked up her phone and typed a message to Steven. "If you're planning to reconcile with Annalise, does that mean I'm free to find a new boyfriend?"

Jessica knew men well. She understood that even when they were done with a woman, they still held a fierce sense of ownership over her.

Steven wouldn't feel threatened if Jessica acted like she was still devoted to him. However, the moment she hinted at moving on, Steven would undoubtedly panic.

"You know my expenses are high. If I don't find someone to support me, the allowance you're giving me might not cover it," she added.

Steven read her message carefully, mulling over her words. He couldn't deny Jessica had expensive tastes-always buying jewelry and luxury goods. The idea of giving her a fixed allowance seemed impractical to sustain her lifestyle.

Yet, the thought of Jessica being with another man? Of his child calling someone else "Daddy"?

was a situation Steven wasn't sure

me think

sly smile. It seemed Steven had taken the bait. Chuckling

mull things over, perhaps letting her words simmer before reacting. She had even planned to relax, take her time with her nightly routine, and drift off to sleep. But her phone buzzed almost immediately, the screen

She answered and said in feigned surprise, "What's up? Why're you

touch of desperation. "I've been

her bedroom, flipping on the

a strained voice, "There's no way I can allow my child

"Oh?" she responded again.

of Jessica. "I don't want you with anyone

he hadn't taken her seriously.

didn't push the issue directly. Instead, she said casually, "If I stay single, as

give you money,"

him off balance. "Aren't you worried Annalise