The Unveiled Rose
Chapter 282

Steven froze. Gavin continued, "From what we know about Jessica, I doubt her injury is anywhere near as serious as Annalise's was." He left the rest unsaid.

Steven's mind was in chaos. He was reminded of the panic of losing Annalise and the comfort of being with her. These feelings confirmed he loved her.

So why... Why did he rush to Jessica's side at the slightest hint of injury? Was it what he had thought earlier? That Jessica exaggerated everything while Annalise downplayed even serious injuries?

Deep down, Steven sensed there was more to it. There was another reason, but he could not pin down what it was. All he knew with crushing clarity was how badly he had treated Annalise.

Zane sat alone on the balcony as he enjoyed the rare moment of peace.

In business, he was unstoppable. He maintained perfect control in every project and every step. But in love, all his proud business experience meant nothing.

There were many constraints. Only now did Zane realize he was not as invincible as he had thought. Someone's advice echoed in his mind.

He should show some vulnerability and buy gifts for others first so that he would have an excuse to give them to Annalise. Suddenly, Zane knew what to do.

He decided to seek advice first to avoid pushing Annalise away. But who to ask?

With a smile, he had someone perfect in mind.

Tomorrow at the office, he would pull them into a meeting room for a chat. He wanted to know if women minded men who showed weakness. And if they did not, how vulnerable should he pretend to be to win Annalise's heart?

...

After getting up, washing up, and finishing her reading, Willow emerged from her room.

I waved her over.

"Mommy!" Willow looked at me eagerly. "Penelope and I planned to wear matching colors today. Can you help me pick something?"

I nodded. "Of course."

Beaming, she grabbed my hand. "Let's go exercise now, then!"

Her well-being had improved so much. Watching her run half a mile without breaking a sweat filled me with pride. When she first started, she would be gasping after just a hundred yards.

She had come so far in such a short time. I gazed at her lovingly.

Noticing my look, Willow snuggled close. "Mommy, are you proud of me?"

I nodded and agreed, "Absolutely! You're so determined!"

Willow lifted her chin proudly and said, "Of course I am."

I playfully tapped her nose.

"Time for fundamentals!" Zane's stern voice interrupted our moment.

We fell silent in perfect sync.

Willow's form was perfect.

Walking over to her, Zane softened his voice as he encouraged her. "Arms higher." He stopped by my side and gently lifted my elbow.

I frowned.