The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 645 "I'm looking for Zachary. Tell him to come out," Steven demanded.

Portia, alarmed by his aggressive stance, stepped forward protectively. "Tell me what you want with him. I'm his guardian. I'll only let him see you if I'm certain you won't harm him."

With no parents to shield him, she was Zachary's sole protector.

Steven's anger simmered, but he was cultured and would not attack an elderly, much less a woman. "I have no intention of hurting you. If you don't want to suffer my wrath, bring him out now."

Just then, Zachary appeared beside Portia. "Grandma, please go inside. He wants to speak with me. It'll be a father-son conversation."

Portia was worried. "Look at him. Does he look like he's in any state to talk calmly?"

Zachary smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry. I can handle this."

"He looks furious," she warned.

"I know, but tigers don't eat their cubs. He won't hurt me, Grandma; I'll be upset if you don't leave now."

that, Portia retreated to the bedroom. The moment the door closed, Steven raised

be so cruel?" he

child, crumpled to the floor from the force of the

preparation, he was unprepared for the reality of the situation. It took him a moment to gather himself and stand up. Then, he looked at Steven and asked, "What have

"You convinced a pregnant woman

directly. "I assume you're

always quick to shift the blame onto

your mistake?"

question. Instead, he said, "If we're

scapegoat. Did she think he was powerless? He'd use

more cruel to Mom?

the stairs; she wanted to

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