The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 334

Zane saw the curiosity and excitement written all over my face and couldn't help but smile. "Why don't you check your phone and take a look at your bank balance?"

Following his words, I pulled out my phone and opened the banking app. My balance had increased over 200 thousand dollars.

"It was initially over 300 thousand dollars, but after taxes, you got just over 200 thousand dollars in your account. As for the comprehensive benefits package, the company handles all that, so no need to worry."

I still found it hard to believe. "That's a lot already. It's my first time earning this much through my own efforts."

Looking at Zane, I added, "Turns out, earning my own way brings a real sense of peace. I don't have to worry about anyone taking it away with some excuses or explaining where every penny goes. If I want to save it, I'll save it. If I want to spend it, I will. It's my freedom."

For a brief moment, I regretted not taking this step earlier.Life could've been so much better.

Feeling a surge of happiness, I smiled. "Since I'm in such a good mood over my paycheck, Zane, what do gift do you want? I'll get it for you."

Zane, who wasn't short on money and could buy anything he wanted, hesitated before saying, "How about a fountain pen?"

"Sure." I remembered I had also promised to buy books for Willow and hadn't done it yet.

Grabbing my bag, I headed downstairs.

Before leaving, I glanced around to make sure no unwelcome people were lurking. Once satisfied, I walked to the nearby bookstore.

Inside the bookstore, I browsed through the Grade One textbooks: language and math. Knowing that textbooks alone might not be enough to teach Willow, I also picked a few workbooks to help her grasp the concepts more solidly.

At the checkout counter, I asked the cashier, “Do you sell fountain pens here?”