The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

"So, when I found out you were using Zane's identity to talk to me, it actually

helped me let go of a lot of my resentment. I could see you as someone new. But

you don't have to do that anymore." Jessica texted.

"Why not?" Casper texted back.

But there was only a single gray check mark next to his message. She had

blocked him. Panicked, he called her, and she picked up.

Casper said tearfully, "I was wrong. Please forgive me. Or at least give me

another chance. I swear, I'll treat you right! I'll take your side if you ever have

issues with my parents, no matter what."

He sounded so desperate, as if he was barely holding himself together.

Jessica remained silent for a long time before finally speaking. "I didn't tell you all

this because I want us to get back together."

She knew that even if they did, it wouldn't be long before another fight made

Casper throw something like, "If you hadn't made me pick sides, I'd still be fine

with my parents" in her face.

Jessica was done carrying that weight. She wanted to start living for herself for a

that felt a

reassure him. "Besides, you

losing me

you'll

to your life and

what you have right

barely catch his breath. "I

I love

didn't know what else to say. Then it hit her-maybe she

meant to go their

on out.

cry for a bit. Maybe you'll

said.

hung

and turned to

tears sliding

It was bound to

it would be

a clean

was still a mess. He bit his lip, and it took a

himself together enough to focus on

be fine he

off and he

he'd show

genuine sincerity.

back

himself.