The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Julia shook her head. "That's exactly why I can't stand Jessica. If it weren't for Casper's feelings-"

Gary got where she was coming from. "To be fair, we were the ones who messed up with Jessica first. When she's ready to come back, we owe it to her to make things right."

Julia wasn't thrilled about it but gave in to his push.

"Fine. If you say so," she muttered. Gary gave a low hum in reply.

Ruby noticed Gary and Julia hadn't reached out to her in days. A cold thread of suspicion began to unwind in her chest. They'd always doted on Lucas relentlessly, insisting on daily visits.

What could have changed? After getting Lucas to sleep, Ruby called Julia. "Mrs. Gibson..."

Julia frowned at Gary, whispering, "It's Ruby."

Gary's expression darkened instantly, but he kept his anger in check. "Don't let her know we were with Casper or that we've figured out the truth. If she wants to play games, we'll give her a taste of her own medicine."

Nodding, Julia smiled and forced a cheerful tone into her voice. "What is it?"

Lucas

trying to convince Casper to

ears. "But that

had been carrying another man's child and passed the boy

resisting. We're holding family

relieved. "I was worried you wanted Casper back with Jessica, especially since he's

ridiculous!" Julia shot

on. Even if Casper changed

t allow it." Contents

as if she'd picked up on something. "Oh? And

no question. You know how

cooed, "Good. I'll

response, ended the

she lets her guard down," he

for all this time, she'll get what she

work, spotted Gavin