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

"Besides, you don't love

think. You're just not used to losing me so

you'll be

life and fix things with your

you

sobbing so hard he could barely

I love

say. Then it hit her-maybe

trying. They were meant to go their separate ways, just strangers from

on out.

and cry for a bit. Maybe you'll feel better once you get it all out,"

said.

she hung up, blocked

to look

tears sliding down

It was

would be

clean

was still a mess. He

he could pull himself together enough to focus

be fine he

off and

he'd show

with genuine

him back if

himself.