The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

I was surprised to hear these words coming from Portia's mouth.

Portia continued, "As for Zachary, he must have hurt you deeply. Even though you never told me the details, I know you well. He must have done something truly terrible for you to give up on him completely. So, I won't pressure you to go back." I stared at her, stunned. "Mom..."

A bittersweet smile crossed Portia's face. "You were unhappy for so long, and as your mother, I feel guilty for not being able to help. I've always regretted that."noveldrama

"It's not your fault," I reassured her, not wanting her to feel distressed on my account. "I never told you because I didn't want you to worry."

Changing the subject, I added, "You mentioned wanting a copy of the video earlier, right? I'll send it to you when we get home tonight."

Portia smiled. "That would be lovely. By the way, was that your daughter on stage?"

I nodded eagerly. "Yes, her name is Willow Huxham. She lost her parents when she was very young, but I can tell they loved her deeply. They named her Willow and hoped she'd live a carefree life."

My eyes filled with approval and appreciation as I spoke of Zane. "Her current father adores her too. He runs a large company and says he'll hand it over to Willow when she grows up.

"It was only after hearing him say that I suddenly realized true love for a child isn't just about empty praise. It's about putting in the effort to help them grow and succeed."

Portia shifted her gaze to Zane and asked, "That sounds great. But what I'm really curious about is how Willow is doing?"

"She's wonderful!" I didn't hold back my praise for Willow.

"When I divorced Steven and left home, I was really doubting myself. My husband had an affair, his mistress said I lacked charm, and even my son preferred her. I couldn't help but wonder if I was as worthless as they made me out to be.

"Then, I met Willow. She made me realize that not only am I not that bad, but I'm actually a great mother. Most importantly, she showed me that I deserve to be loved.

A contented smile spread across my face. "My current boyfriend treats me really well."

Portia looked visibly relieved. "Knowing that you're happy makes me feel at ease."

"Mom, I'm all grown up now. I can take responsibility for my choices. You should let it go and allow me to live the life I want."

Portia froze for a moment, then nodded. "You're right."

Willow returned to the stage, her cheeks flushed and her eyes bright as she finished reading her lines as the host. When our gazes met, she smiled radiantly and raised her hand to wave at me. en

I lifted my hand and waved back. Willow's smile widened.

As Portia watched our interaction, she couldn't help but feel deeply thankful for my persistence back then Without it, I might not have found happiness now.

...

After the event, Portia left to pick up Zachary while Zane and I fetched Willow.

Willow spotted me and sprinted over with an eager grin. Stopping in front of me, she asked proudly,

"Mommy! How did I do?"

I gave her a big thumbs-up. "You were amazing! I sat in the audience and watched you perform like a superstar. You're great on stage!"