The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 144

Steven held himself back eventually.

Jessica said softly and sweetly, "I'm so happy right now."

Steven responded perfunctorily, "Me, too."

…

As usual, I was up early to wake Willow.

After Willow left her room, she immediately went to find Zane, and we ran several laps around the yard. Then, I accompanied Willow to take a bath.

After several days of training, Willow had gotten used to it. Now, though she was tired after running, she could still chatter with me.

She stood obediently as I bathed her. "Mommy."

I continued cleaning her up. "Mm?"

"I feel like I'm different lately," Willow said happily.

I asked in surprise, "How so?"

Willow gave me an example. "Before I started training, if someone said something terrible to me, I would sulk and feel really sad. Now, when they bully me, I just think that once my body is stronger and I know how to fight, I'll beat them all up one by one."

Willow said with a smile, "Then, I'd be happy."

"That's right." I helped her put on her clothes. Looking at her rosy face, I noticed her eyes were full of joy. "Our Willow is getting better and better!"

Willow, feeling embarrassed, threw herself into my arms.

I took the opportunity to give her a kiss.

Willow's eyes lit up like crescent moons, her face beaming with happiness.

…

When we went downstairs, breakfast was already prepared.

Willow's body hadn't fully recovered yet, so she couldn't eat anything too greasy. Therefore, breakfast was kept light.