The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

If Casper's project truly had the issues Zane mentioned, he should be desperate for money. Having barely grasped this opportunity, Casper shouldn't have been so willing to return the funds, let alone so generously. What could this mean? A thought struck Jessica-perhaps Casper and Zane were conspiring to deceive her! If so, it could indicate the project would be incredibly profitable.

Jessica snatched up her phone and messaged Casper, "I'm curious. Why are you so willing to return the money? Aren't you short on cash? Wouldn't it be better to keep it and develop your business?"

She reasoned that despite Zane's wealth, the likelihood of him knowingly investing in a losing venture seemed low.

Casper raised an eyebrow. Had Jessica caught on?

With a soft chuckle, he carefully typed his response. "Of course, it would be better. But Jessica, we have a child together, and now you're expecting another. While I'm looking out for myself, I also naturally have to consider you and our children. "If this project succeeds, that's fantastic. But if I fail, I can endure hardship. What about you and the kids? Should you suffer alongside me?"

Jessica felt her heart soften as she read this. She should have known Casper loved her and would always prioritize her needs. Even if she didn't reciprocate, his success would surely benefit her too.

Casper added, "At least you can live comfortably with the money at hand."

Though Jessica had never lacked affection, she felt touched by Casper's care for her. "Thank you," she replied.

"It's what I should do," Casper responded.

...

After returning home, Willow scampered upstairs, her footsteps echoing through the house. She grabbed her pink suitcase and began stuffing it with clothes for the trip.

I stood beside her, helping her pack. "Are you staying at a hotel?"

"Grandpa and Grandma said so," Willow replied, barely containing her excitement. This was her first trip with Milton and Dorothy, and she was thrilled. "They said they'd take us to see everything in the area!"

As I watched her jubilant expression,

I couldn't help but wonder if I hadn't been taking her out enough. She was still young and at the perfect age to explore the world. Taking her out more often might help her understand things better. noveldrama

I cupped Willow's face and kissed her cheek. "So, you've got next weekend planned too?" Willow nodded vigorously. "Yes! I've talked it over with Penelope. She's coming with me."

Having a friend come along made her feel even more confident about the trip.

I looked at Willow intently. "Remember to ask Grandpa and Grandma to take lots of photos."

She met my gaze. "Don't worry, Mommy. I will."

Since it was only a two-day trip, she only needed two or three changes of clothes.

After packing, Willow called

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Penelope. She sat on the bed, swinging her legs as she chatted. "I'm all packed! How about you?"

Penelope sounded out of breath. "Still packing," she puffed.

Willow grinned. "Want us to come pick you up now?"

Penelope hesitated before answering, "Sure. I should be done by the time you get here." "Okay!"

Willow grabbed her suitcase and dashed downstairs. "Grandpa, Grandma, time to go!"