The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 852

Willow stared at me, her expression blank. After a long pause, she asked, "Is that really possible?"

I nodded. "Absolutely. You can spend time with Penelope as long as you like."

Willow jumped to her feet, her face lighting up with a grin. "Yes!"

Earlier, Zane had been pulled away by an urgent work matter. He'd just wrapped up the call when he caught part of our conversation. An idea came to him right away.

"If you try to invite Penelope out every day this summer, she might not have the time," he said.

Willow's smile faded. "What should I do, then?"

Zane nudged her gently. "Can you think of a reason to spend time with her that would help you both grow? Something Mrs. Summers couldn't possibly say no to?"

Willow caught on, her face brightening again. "Studying?"

Zane played it cool. "Oh?"

"Daddy, what if you hired a tutor for me this summer? I could get ahead in my studies! Then I could ask Penelope to join me. Mrs. Summers wouldn't turn that down!" Willow exclaimed.

Though he'd gotten the answer he was after, Zane pressed a bit further. "But that would mean less time for fun."

Willow patted her chest, unfazed. "That's fine. Just keep Saturdays and Sundays free for me."

"If you're really serious about this, I'll make it happen. Should I call the tutors now to set up your summer classes?" Zane asked, sounding playfully reluctant.

Willow grinned. "Yes! I'm heading to bed!"

Zane gave her a wave. "Go ahead."

She bounded upstairs. Zane sat down beside me. "Kids these days are easy to persuade."

"I trust you. Just let me know if you need anything extra. I'll make sure it's ready," Zane said.

Milton agreed without hesitation. "Alright."

The resources Zane had arranged for Willow were generous—opportunities far beyond what Milton could provide. It was only natural that he accepted Zane's support.

…

When Gary and Julia showed up at Casper's place, he had just gotten back from work.

Surprised but polite, he asked, "Have you eaten yet?"

Julia's stomach rumbled loudly. Her face turned red, and she said, "Not yet."

Despite still holding a grudge over the Jessica incident, Casper couldn't bring himself to turn Julia and Gary away. They were, after all, the ones who had brought him into the world and raised him.