The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 573

Milton stood on the balcony and looked at Zane. "How's your relationship with Annalise going?"

Zane thought carefully for a moment before answering, "Very good."

Milton smiled and said, "While we take Willow out to play, you should use this opportunity to improve your relationship with Annalise. Both of you would usually focus on the child, and you don't have time alone. You can't even have a proper conversation." Zane shook his head and replied, "No. We're often alone together at the company too."

"It's not the same," Milton said without explaining how it differed.

When Milton heard Willow's voice, he quickly responded, "Okay, I'm coming!"

Then he patted Zane's shoulder and said, "Trust me."

Zane looked at Milton in confusion, not understanding what he meant. However, he replied, "Okay."

Milton left the balcony, went to the bedroom to grab his suitcase, and left with Dorothy and Willow.

...

Zane and I remained in

the atmosphere had indeed subtly shifted-it seemed he

said, "Finally, we

these past few days," I replied,

up

but he didn't stop

his response, I

figure, devoid of any lingering hesitation. He wanted to

end, he

and everyone wanted to finish quickly. If he pushed too hard, it

hoped Annalise could do whatever she wanted,

be right if he became the one influencing her,

...

silence broken only by the clinking of empty bottles

thoughts. Try as he might to focus on anything else

him, her arms wrapped gently around him, her hands tenderly caressing his face. She whispered, "Have you been drinking again?" Even knowing she was just a figment of his imagination, Steven couldn't bear to shatter the illusion. He nodded.

sighed and