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!"

Casper couldn't help the wave of resignation that crashed over him when he heard Julia's words. 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

them. Casper blamed himself for not being strong enough to take a stand against his parents and protect his wife and child. He had let them suffer too

to continue the topic, Casper asked,

some time with her and show her how we truly

got her the place she's currently staying at," Casper pointed out, hoping his parents understood that the chances of Jessica letting

spare room? Did it ever cross your mind that Jessica

Julia suggested, "Maybe we should stay in a

about your

Dad. The place I'm renting only has room for