The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 653 Having heard Steven's and Zachary's sides of the story, Zane considered both and said. "Zachary isn't wrong from where I stand. He anticipated what would happen and took precautions against it. He's shown admirable forethought and come up with a clever way to protect himself."

Zane was admittedly impressed with the way Zachary handled this. If the little boy hadn't hurt Annalise so deeply before, he might even take him under his wing.

Alas, Zane would never keep someone who had hurt Annalise close to her-not even her own child.

Steven had counted on Zane siding with him, given they were both adult men. However, the latter's answer surprised him. He argued, "But—"

Zachary cut him off, "No buts. The truth shows that you'll only listen to Jessica and believe her version of events. It's the reason why your wife left you and your company stocks took a plunge... That's the price you have to pay for your stupidity!"

Enraged, Steven opened his mouth to snap some sense into Zachary.

However, Zane interjected, "He's right, Steven. As the head of a company, you shouldn't allow your emotions to affect your judgment. You shouldn't be so riled up by whatever Jessica said and pick a bone with someone without reason..."

Maintaining a neutral front, Zane continued, "If you keep this up, how will you convince others that the company will thrive under your leadership?"

Stumped, Steven found himself agreeing with Zane. As a man, he shouldn't be so boor-headed as to get worked up over a woman's words, be they lies or not. He should have had the brains to weigh the facts and make the right call.

even do that, was he

was resolved, Zachary couldn't

used to

robot at home that

might

room with her

wanted to stay a little

outstay his welcome and annoy Annalise. He rose to

said, "I should head

as well. "Would you like me to give

a mildly surprised look. He hadn't expected Zachary to be

to the door. He didn't turn back to the living room until he saw the little boy get into the

and I returned his gaze evenly. He looked as if he had just learned something new.as he

turning

bewilderment. "What did

expecting you to be so calm