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 out for

fine. We've just been busy trying to convince Casper to

ears. "But that shouldn't keep you from seeing

her calm disposition, but her patience had worn thin by now. Ruby had been carrying another man's child and passed the boy off as their grandson! On top of that, she'd stolen the chance for Julia and Gary to spend time with their real grandson,

her bitterness, Julia replied, "But Casper's resisting. We're holding family

worried you wanted Casper back with Jessica, especially since he's insistent about

be ridiculous!" Julia shot

on. Even if Casper changed his mind, her

t allow it." Contents

tone turned sharp as if she'd picked

question. You know how I feel about homewreckers,"

cooed, "Good. I'll wait to hear your

hum in response, ended the

feeling at ease so she lets her guard down,"

all this time, she'll get what

work,