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?"

hem of her clothes, Yelena said, "I was nearly taken advantage of at the party,

what she expected him

are true. But you're unwilling to cooperate and are

her thoughts. "I just wanted you to step

unnecessary drama at dinner parties. That's why, whenever I'm invited, the hosts make sure nothing

the underlying meaning. He was making it clear—no one would be stupid enough to stir

the surveillance footage. They knew what had happened. Even if she wanted to argue, there was

of what to say next, until her eyes settled on me sitting in the car. Suddenly, her expression twisted in anger, and she jabbed a finger in my

caught me off guard. Why was she

my composure and smiled. "I came with my daughter to pick up my husband.

problem!" Yelena's frustration came pouring out all at once. "You must be the one stopping

her off. "First of all, I'm not as decent as you make me out to be. Stop confusing