The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 259

The waiter brought over our orders and placed them on the table, smiling, "Enjoy your meal."

"Thanks!" We had ordered quinoa as the staple, and I served myself a small bowl, picking up a piece of beef brisket. The crisp and tender texture was irresistible.

I ate several big mouthfuls but noticed Zane hadn't touched his food. Out of curiosity, I asked, "Aren't you going to eat?"

Only then did Zane begin to eat. "Of course I want to," he replied.

…

Back at the office, Steven couldn't stop thinking about what Annalise had said. It dawned on him that he had made so many mistakes.

Ever since marrying Annalise, he had gotten used to thinking she wouldn't have emotional ups and downs because she was so sensible and obedient. He hadn't even realized how much she had been suffering.

Now, Steven desperately wanted to break up with Jessica and make it up to Annalise. After making up his mind, he called Jessica.

Jessica's voice came through the phone, soft and sweet, "What's up? Do you miss me?"

"I'm sorry," Steven said. As soon as he said that, he felt an inexplicable sense of relief.

What was he apologizing for out of the blue? Jessica's mind raced, searching for possibilities until she cautiously asked, "Did you cheat on me?"

"No," Steven quickly replied. "But I've realized that the person I truly love isn't you. It's Annalise. I've decided to do everything I can to win her back and build a good life with her.

"The house you're living in now will be yours. And I'll continue to send you child support on time for the baby you're carrying."

Steven's tone grew lighter, almost cheerful, as he added, "From now on, if we ever cross paths, let's just act like we've never met."

"Steven!" Jessica knew that if she accepted Steven's arrangement, she would lose a source of income—a very lucrative one at that. Until she found another man willing to spoil her, she was never going to let go of Steven.