The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

As he was not getting an answer from Jessica, Cody urged, "Mommy?"

Jessica didn't want Steven to hear her, so she lowered her voice. She said, "Daddy and I are never going to reconcile."

From Cody's perspective, no matter how good other men were, they all fell short in comparison to Casper. Cody had said those things to make himself seem open. But Cody still found it difficult to swallow the fact that Jessica was never going to reconcile with Casper, making him shed tears.

Feeling bad for Cody, Jessica wiped his tears away and said, "I know you're reluctant to let him go. But do you know what's going to happen to me if I reconcile with Daddy?"

Cody shook his head. Jessica said flatly, "My life would feel like hell. Your grandparents would continue to torture us, and we'd have to endure their criticisms so that we don't affect Casper's work.

"You might not think much about a life like that, but I've had enough. If I have to live a life like that again, I won't be able to survive it."

Cody had something to say, but he swallowed it back. He said empathetically, "Mommy, let's not get back with Daddy ever again, then."

Jessica fell silent. Cody continued, "I'll behave, too."

Jessica knew her baby's identity would eventually be exposed. Even though Steven was treating her well, he would definitely hate her if he found out about the baby's identity, and then he'd break up with her.

that Cody might not be prepared for that, Jessica said, "Even if Steven abandons us in the future, I won't go looking for another man. From now on, I will

and exclaimed, "Of

hearing that, Jessica smiled and

her, everything else was of Jessica's concern. Satisfied with his response, she

can go

"Okay."

with the

Steven in the kitchen. When he saw her, he brought her a stool and gestured for

asked, "Is there something you want to tell

had something to say. What was running through

the moment, Steven said, "When I

man, and I'm

hung up

on Annalise anymore. I'l