The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 112

Steven was upset when Jessica did not answer him. He pressed, "Well?"

"Fine," Jessica muttered. Wanting to change the subject, she added, "Don't forget about tonight's party."

Steven's friend would be hosting the party. Truth be told, Steven could use the distraction, as his mood had been off lately.

Lightening up at the thought of hanging with his friends, he asked, "Are you coming?"

Jessica shook her head before touching her belly. "No. Now that I'm pregnant, too much excitement probably isn't good for the baby right now. You should go and have fun."

Steven said warmly, "Take care of yourself, then."

Jessica chuckled. "Such a worrywart! You'll only be out for a few hours."

Even though she was just after his money, his concern still gave her butterflies. "I'll be okay. I promise."

He was still concerned for her. "Call me if you need anything."

She nodded. "Okay."

…

Zane got held up in the parking garage by Eric, who said he had urgent business matters to discuss. So, I headed up alone.

Stepping off the elevator, I spotted Rowena waiting by the office. What was she doing here? Did she want to talk to Zane?

I slowed down, wondering if it would be inappropriate for me to head into the office now.

Hearing footsteps, Rowena looked up, and her face instantly darkened. She strode over to me. "What's a nanny like you doing here? Shouldn't you be at home?"

I explained calmly, "Mr. Huxham didn't have time to take me home after dropping off Willow, so he brought me to the office."

She frowned. "Couldn't you catch a cab, then?"

I did not know how to respond.

With a disgusted look, she continued, "You're just distracting Zane from work by hanging around his office all day!"

"Mom!" Zane heard Rowena trying to cause me trouble again just as he reached the floor. His cool voice cut in, "If you have something to say, say it to me."