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?"

was nearly taken advantage of at the

of what she expected him

if your claims are true. But you're unwilling

clueless. It took Yelena a moment to gather her thoughts. "I just wanted you to step in

composed. "I'm not the police. And besides, I don't like unnecessary drama at dinner parties. That's why, whenever I'm invited, the hosts make

meaning. He was making it clear—no one would be stupid

already seen the surveillance footage. They knew what had happened.

say next, until her eyes settled on me sitting in the car. Suddenly, her expression twisted in anger, and she

me off guard. Why was she taking it out

my

"You must be the one stopping Zane from helping me! Otherwise, a decent man like

I'm not as decent as you make me out