The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Casper walked up to Jessica and said, "Steven was in the wrong here. Don't take it to heart."

"I think Steven lacks respect for others, and he's not the right fit for me," Jessica replied, her eyes locking onto Casper's. "And honestly, I don't even like him that much. So, I don't see the point in continuing this."

Even if they stayed together, Steven would always believe that his success was entirely due to his talent and effort. He'd likely think his partner hadn't contributed much to his achievements. And sooner or later, when younger, more attractive women appeared around him, he'd find some excuse to cheat.

Jessica could almost see her future unfolding before her eyes, and it wasn't a life she wanted.

Casper understood what she was saying. "Then, would you be willing to be with me? I know you still have feelings for me. And lately, I've been earning enough to support us. If you're willing to give us a chance, I promise I'll treat you better than Steven ever did."

Jessica hesitated before responding, "Steven said that if I left him, he'd just find another woman. What about you? Would you do the same?"

shook his head. "No. You're the only

you one more chance. But if you disappear from me again like last

"Deal," Casper agreed.

just around the corner. Casper had originally planned to move to the city where Jessica's family lived, but his parents insisted he return home first to familiarize himself with the

used Casper's savings to throw a grand wedding, and later bought a house

Julia were involved, they lived a happy life. Jessica was gentle and caring toward him, and he felt incredibly lucky to have found a woman who treated him

could have predicted what would

stopped paying him a salary. As he didn't want Jessica to suffer through hard times

his earlier work provided a solid foundation, and his former classmates, who had landed jobs at big companies, passed him projects

period, Casper told himself that Jessica could live