The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Zane laughed and teased, "Otherwise, if some guy comes along and you realize all I do is make money while he's fun and thoughtful, I'd be doomed, wouldn't I?"

I calmly replied, "As long as you don't betray me, it doesn't matter who else comes along. I wouldn't be interested because you're my only choice."

I slowed my words. "Because you pulled me out when I was sinking. When everyone else doubted me, you made me see that I wasn't as worthless as they said. Actually, I'm pretty great. You helped me find myself again, rebuild my confidence, and grow, little by little. I'll always be grateful for that."

Leaning against the kitchen door, I glanced at Zane's profile and added, "And I love you very much."

Zane turned off the stove, walked over, and pulled me into his arms. His warm lips met mine in an urgent kiss.

"You've never told me these things before," he murmured. "I always thought you liked me, but I wasn't sure it was real love."

I smiled in response. "I do love you. Otherwise, I never would have agreed to be with you—not after everything I went through in my failed marriage. I was scared of marriage itself."

Zane's kisses grew more intense and desperate as if trying to erase any lingering doubt. I had no choice but to surrender, wrapping my arms around his neck and responding the best I could.

A sudden knock came at the door.

I released Zane and gently pushed him back. He gave me a look of reluctance before striding over to answer it.

Trailing behind Zane, I saw Sasha and Shane at the door.

"What are you two doing here?" I asked, surprised.noveldrama

"Isn't Zane sharing his experience

with everyone this afternoon?"

Sasha beamed as she stepped

inside. "Since I suggested it, I figured

I should take responsibility and

come early to talk to him first"

I wasn't particularly interested in

work-related stuff, so I left them

bet

and headed upstairs. "You guys go

and talk."

it

I had just managed to take a step when Sasha grabbed my arm. Her eyes were

wide and pleading.

"Stay with me, okay? Otherwise, I'll get nervous," she said.

"Sure," I replied.

Zane shot Sasha an annoyed glance.

She smirked and lifted her chin at him. Then, she flopped onto the couch, leaning against my shoulder.

"More people have been signing up," she said.

Sasha became aware of Zane's influence when she noticed the number of people growing in the group chat.

She hadn't done any promotion for the event. She'd only mentioned his name, and somehow, word of mouth had packed the chat with eager participants.

"I already sent you all the fees. Check your account," Sasha said.

Zane took out his phone, gave it a quick glance, and said, "Alright."

He hadn't planned on taking any money for this, but if he declined, he was sure

Sasha would cause him another headache.