The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Then suddenly, Casper's parents discovered he had been working on the side.

They suddenly contacted him, claiming the family was facing a cash flow problem and needed him to cover some expenses. Without hesitation, Casper transferred all his savings to them.

When he returned to Jessica, he felt like he had nothing left to offer her. So, he turned her down.

The look in Jessica's eyes at that moment was heartbreaking. She asked him if he didn't like her, and if that was the case, she'd keep her distance from then on.

The truth was, Casper did like her. He just didn't know how to explain his situation. After a long silence, he finally nodded and said, "Yes."

Jessica was devastated. Tears streamed down her face as she told him she wouldn't bother him anymore.

Casper told himself that making money through projects was easy. Once he saved up enough, he'd explain everything to her.

the time he finally met the standard he'd set in his mind

dorm, only to find out she had a new

him. Casper hid in the shadows, watching them talk until Steven reluctantly left. Only then did Casper

vividly in his mind. He remembered every word

to see him. "What are you

"Why didn't you wait

looked confused. "Wait for you? Why would

my money. I felt like I wasn't good enough for you," Casper said

Casper's savior, and she held a special

you didn't like

responding,

days. At first, I kept second-guessing myself, wondering if I had misinterpreted your words. I waited over a month for you to

you never