The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Just as Zane stepped out of the shower, he overheard our conversation and calmly explained, "Annalise is even more impressive than you imagine. She's giving a conservative estimate when she says she's making millions of dollars." "Wow!" Willow's eyes widened in amazement. "She can earn even more?"

Zane nodded confidently. "Indeed. This wave of designer collectibles is selling exceptionally well and boosted sales of related merchandise and some comic books."

Willow looked at me with even more admiration.

I smiled and said, "It's all thanks to your father."

Zane humbly replied, "It's really your hard work."

I didn't deny it.

Zane then asked, "The toys you've been working on are quite profitable too, aren't they?"

I replied, "Eric said their sales are almost catching up to the collectibles. They've also brought in a significant amount of money. When this trend starts to cool down, I'll launch new dolls. I estimate the stock I have on hand will keep the trend going for another year."

Zane was surprised. "You've already planned the follow-up strategy?"

not actively thinking about how to make money, there's something wrong

Zane nodded in agreement.

both of you are working so hard, does

a moment of silence, Zane replied, "That's right. You can play to your heart's content if you would

Willow smiled gleefully.

the option to take over the company. You

me for a long time before saying, "Even though playing sounds fun, I feel like

so busy that you don't even have time to enjoy

distract himself from the pain of seeing the woman he loved marry someone else.

answered calmly, "It's so I

blinked her eyes in

also for your mom. As long as our family is together— whether we're at home or traveling-we'll always

Willow said,

...

his longing for Annalise. He had even started finding