The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 222

"It's me," came a reply from the doll.

Willow's mouth dropped open in shock as she heard Milton's familiar voice. Zane hadn't lied to her! The doll could actually talk!

Willow's eyes sparkled with excitement. She quickly turned to another doll. "Grandma?"

"I'm here," came the reply.

Willow gasped. "Wow! This is amazing!"

As soon as she spoke, laughter echoed from the dolls, so lifelike that it felt as if Milton and Dorothy were sitting right across from her.

Willow thought that since she was just talking to her dolls, no one else would know what she said. So, she cleared her throat and solemnly said, "I love you both very much."

The two replied in unison, "We love you, too."

Feeling shy, Willow rocked back and forth on the bed. "I think it's been a long time since I last talked to you. Has it been two years? Maybe even three. But I actually have so much to tell you."

"Then, go ahead," Milton encouraged her.

Willow giggled softly. "I've been really good lately. I practice speaking in front of the mirror every morning. Sometimes, I run out of things to say mid-practice, so Mommy started teaching me phonics.

"She's super patient, and I've been really serious about learning. I've already memorized all the letters! So now, I can read some simple books on my own. Not only can I read them, but I can also spell and pronounce words!"

She paused briefly before continuing, "After practicing speaking, I'll move on to reading. I've kept at it for so long that my pronunciation is super clear now. The only thing left is speaking to other people."

Dorothy quickly praised her, "You're really impressive, Willow!"