The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Zane grinned and replied, "Understood."

He suddenly felt that Willow was truly a wonderful child. She worried that they might forget about her once they had their children. However, after receiving reassurance, she immediately began worrying that their future children wouldn't get enough love.

Zane said to Willow affectionately, "I want you to know that no matter what happens, I will always stand by your side unconditionally."

Willow lifted her chin, satisfied. "Good! If you ever ignore or push me aside, I won't forgive you! And even if you try to make it up to me, I'll still be mad."

Zane chuckled and gently ruffled her hair. "I promise I will never neglect you." Willow turned to me with hopeful eyes. I smiled. "Don't worry. I promise, too."

It was only then that she nodded in approval. "That's more like it."

Dorothy and Milton, who had been listening, couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy. Willow was such a naive child who believed in her parents' promises. However, promises would only hold weight where love existed. One day, if the love faded, one would even feel at ease if you distance yourself.

Dorothy and Milton glanced at Zane. Thankfully, Zane and Annalise weren't that kind of people.

Hence, they felt reassured.

Willow was lucky-her parents were truly good people who loved her with all their hearts. Zane was certain that even if they had their own children in the future, they wouldn't treat Willow any differently.

On the way to drop Willow off at kindergarten, she clung to me affectionately, chatting about anything and everything. I gently patted her shoulder, answering every question she asked.

After a while, she tilted her head and asked, "Mom, do you ever find me annoying?"

I frowned slightly. "Why would I think that?"

Without hesitation, she replied, "If I talked like this to other people, they'd probably think, 'This kid talks so much. She's so annoying."noveldrama

I wanted to tell her that she was adorable and everyone would love her, but I hesitated. If I said that, would she become blind to the possibility of others' hatred?

After a brief pause, I said, "When talking to others, it's good to be mindful of their feelings. But when you're talking to me, you don't have to worry about that. Becausel will always understand you."

Willow grinned and hugged my arm. "Mom, you're the best! I love you."

I ruffled her soft hair, smiling but saying nothing. After dropping her off, I watched as she happily skipped over to Penelope and took her hand. Then, the two of them walked into school, chatting and laughing

The driver started the car again after they disappeared.

Zane seemed to be in a good mood after finishing a conversation with someone. He turned to me and said, "My secretary told me he has good news for you when you get to the office."

Surprised, I glanced at him and asked, "What is it?"

He shook his head regretfully. "He didn't tell me the details. I only know that you'd be really happy when you hear it."

I chuckled. "Now I'm curious."

Soon, the car pulled into the company parking lot. Zane and I took the elevator up

to his office floor. As soon as we stepped out, I spotted Eric waiting by his office door.

I asked, "You're here so early? And why do you seem so happy?"