The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Willow stared at me, her expression blank. After a long pause, she asked, "Is that really possible?"

I nodded. "Absolutely. You can spend time with Penelope as long as you like."

Willow jumped to her feet, her face lighting up with a grin. "Yes!"

Earlier, Zane had been pulled away by an urgent work matter. He'd just wrapped up the call when he caught part of our conversation. An idea came to him right away.

"If you try to invite Penelope out every day this summer, she might not have the time," he said.

Willow's smile faded. "What should I do, then?"

Zane nudged her gently. "Can you think of a reason to spend time with her that would help you both grow? Something Mrs. Summers couldn't possibly say no to?"

Willow caught on, her face brightening again. "Studying?"

Zane played it cool. "Oh?"

if you hired a tutor for me this summer? I could get ahead in my studies! Then I could ask Penelope to join me. Mrs. Summers wouldn't turn that

the answer he was after, Zane pressed a bit further. "But that would mean less time for

chest, unfazed. "That's fine. Just keep Saturdays and Sundays free for

you're really serious about this, I'll make it happen. Should I call the tutors now to set up your summer

grinned. "Yes! I'm heading to

a wave.

me. "Kids these days are easy to

kindergarten. Don't you think arranging all these

the whole summer. At least this way, she'll

time, what if we ask Dorothy and Milton

that far ahead. "I'll talk to them

to make adjustments once Willow's interests became clearer. After that, he went to see Dorothy and

for bed when he heard Zane knock on the door.

time comes, we'll need you and Dorothy

make

Just let me know if you need anything extra. I'll make sure