The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Jessica had tolerated Gary and Julia for years, too. And yet, things never got

better between them. If Casper's parents had been as amenable as they were now, perhaps Jessica might still be part of their family.

Casper said, "It's too late now. I think you should go."

Julia begged to differ. "How are you so sure Jessica won't forgive us if she hasn't heard us out yet?"

"Because she's made up her mind to settle down with Steven," Casper said, sounding heartbroken. "She had it rough while living under our roof, and now that she finally has a shot at a new life and a happy ending, you should leave her alone. Let her have her peace."

Julia refused to accept this. "No, I won't stand for it. Her child is the only grandson of the Gibson family. She can go ahead and marry someone else, but I won't let another man raise my grandson!"

Things might not have panned out the way they did if his parents had reaffirmed Cody's place in the family sooner. Alas, the reassurance had come too little,

not being strong enough to take a stand against

you realize that." Not wanting to continue the topic, Casper asked, "Given your sudden

"Drop us off at Jessica's place. We could spend some time with

understood

for a spare room? Did it ever cross your mind that Jessica might not forgive you

Julia suggested, "Maybe we should stay in

Casper a look and asked, "What about your place, then? Could

him down right away. "Forget it, Dad. The place I'm renting only has room for one. We'd hardly have any space to move around if you and Mom moved in