The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

I finished Zane's sentence, saying, "Focus on what female players actually want."

Zane studied me intently, and I met his gaze. "What? Am I wrong?"

"No. You're exactly right." He chuckled softly before reaching out to stroke my hair.

I looked at him, surprised.

He continued, "Actually, the game project needs a few more artists. Would you be interested in helping?"

I had been pretty swamped lately, and Zane knew this. He quickly added, "It's just to draw some small items like gifts and flowers."

It would not be too challenging to draw those, so I agreed, "Sure."

His cool voice held an unusual hint of indulgence. "I'll give you a bonus when you're done."

I said with a smile, "Thanks."

Then, I started coloring Chapter 3 of my comic. After all, my comic was my priority aside from looking after Willow.

When I needed a break from the comic, I started sketching roses. The lush bouquet turned out beautifully and vividly. Just looking at it lifted my mood and motivated me to finish the rest.

So, I decided to continue sketching everything else. I managed to send all the item illustrations to Zane before the workday ended.

He took a quick look, then turned to me.

I stretched and asked with a smile, "Is there anything that needs changing?"

He shook his head. "No. They're perfect."

"Great!" I sighed in relief.

Zane started to ask about the bonus amount but stopped himself. Instead, he stood up. "Let's pick up Willow."

"Okay."

"Steven..." Jessica complained with a coy voice, "Zachary's about to get out of school. Aren't you coming to pick me up? Haven't we agreed to pick up both kids together from now on?"

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Steven explained, "I'm really busy with work today, so I probably won't have time to get you."

Jessica asked, "Should I go pick them up myself, then?"

"No need." Steven saw this as a chance to finally talk things through with Annalise. "I'll do it. You stay home and rest."

Touched, Jessica gushed, "You're so thoughtful. I'm so lucky to have found such a wonderful man!"

For some reason, Steven felt nothing hearing her words. "Me too."

After chatting a bit more, they hung up.

Steven leaned against his car near the kindergarten while watching the crowd. The moment he saw

vel.

Annalise getting out of her car, he strode toward her.

...

The first-years got out earliest, so I waited patiently outside rather than pushing through the crowd.

Zane stood behind me. I gave him a curious look. When I first came to the Huxham residence, I always picked up Willow alone. I was not sure when it started, but Zane began coming along, too. FindNovel

He asked casually, "What is it?"

I shook my head. "Nothing."

"Annalise."

As I waited for Willow, I suddenly heard someone call my name.

I turned to look.

Steven stood nearby with his eyes fixed on me.