The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

However, Zane didn't show up at all. Yelena just couldn't understand why.

...

After dinner, I took Willow with me to pick up Zane. We had barely reached the hotel entrance when he walked out. His usual gentle gaze landed on Willow and me as he asked, "Wasn't it a hassle to come all this way just for me?"

Willow instantly dove into his arms. "Not at all, Daddy! I'm happy as long as I get to see you."

Zane held her close with a fond smile. "Is that so?"

Willow nodded eagerly. After I got into the car, Zane handed Willow over to me. We had barely settled in when Yelena caught up, her eyes red from crying.

"Zane, do you have any idea what just happened to me?" she demanded.

Zane's gaze rested on her. "What?"

clothes, Yelena said, "I was nearly taken advantage of at the party, and you just stood

of what she expected

handled," he said. "They'll make sure justice is done if your claims are true. But you're

moment to gather her thoughts. "I just wanted you to

like unnecessary drama at dinner parties. That's why,

was making it clear—no one would be

what had happened. Even

me sitting in the car. Suddenly, her expression twisted in anger, and she jabbed

me off guard. Why was she

my daughter to pick up my husband. Is that a

problem!" Yelena's frustration came pouring out all at once. "You must be the one stopping Zane from helping me! Otherwise, a

of all, I'm not as decent as you make me out to be. Stop confusing your fantasies with