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 little

reassure him. "Besides, you don't love me as

just not used to losing me so suddenly. Give it some time.

you'll be

can get back to your life and fix

you

was sobbing so hard he could barely catch his breath. "I know, but I

it. I love

Then it

go

on out.

you'll feel better once you

said.

hung

and turned to

tears sliding down

It was bound

it would

clean

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

he could pull himself together enough to focus

he

off and he made

money, he'd

with genuine

take him back if he

himself.