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?"

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

after, Zane pressed a bit further. "But that would mean less

patted her chest, unfazed. "That's fine. Just

I'll make it happen. Should I call the tutors

"Yes! I'm heading to

a wave.

bounded upstairs. Zane sat down beside me. "Kids these days are

kindergarten. Don't you

better than letting her waste the whole summer. At least this way,

time, what if we ask Dorothy and Milton

ahead. "I'll talk to them about

a few exploratory hobbies, planning to make adjustments

he heard Zane knock

you and Dorothy to help keep an eye on her

brightened. "No problem. We'll make sure she's well taken care

you need anything extra. I'll