The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 236

Annalise poured all her energy into managing the home. Even though Steven earned money, she was careful never to spend it frivolously. In fact, she was always focused on saving, ensuring they had enough set aside for emergencies.

Sadly, all the money Annalise saved never ended up being used by her. Instead, it was spent on Jessica. Even Steven found himself putting more effort into Jessica than he did with Annalise.

A complex, indescribable emotion surged within Steven.

Annalise had given her heart, yet she had never been repaid.

When Jessica noticed Steven's silence, she ended the call.

Steven couldn't stop thinking about Annalise's gentle smile, and his heart ached uncontrollably.

…

Zane sat in the living room, waiting for Willow to come downstairs. When she didn't, he sighed and said, "Ever since she started talking to Milton and Dorothy, she barely talks to us anymore."

I was working on a drawing at the time. After hearing Zane's comment, I looked up at him with a smile. "Are you jealous?"

Zane looked puzzled. "Aren't you bothered by it?"

"Hmm..." I thought carefully about how to answer Zane's question. "When I first became a mother, I did feel a strong sense of possessiveness. I wanted my child to be the closest to me."

Zane raised an eyebrow.

"As I watched my child grow, meeting new people and playing with others, I saw how lively and happy he was. It made me realize something."

I turned to Zane. "If you keep your child too close, they can't grow. It's important to give them space and respect their independence."