The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 288

Eric said mysteriously, "I'll keep it a secret for now. You'll know when the time comes."

Having finished his report, he proceeded to leave the office, greeting Zane along the way.

Zane walked over, then turned to look at me as he asked, "Do you want to know what exactly he meant by good news?"

"I do," I replied honestly. "But I can also roughly guess what he meant."

"Oh?" Zane asked in amusement.

I analyzed the situation slowly. "What I currently know is… First off, I don't really interact much with him—in fact, we only really interact with each other when discussing my comics. Secondly, it's good news, yet it comes with a time restriction."

I looked intently at Zane as I continued, "The company has probably come up with another new plan to promote my comic, allowing it to reach an even bigger audience. That way, merchandise sales will also see a sharp increase. Thus, I'll be able to earn more as well."

I then finished my analysis with a question, asking, "Am I right?"

"Yes," Zane said in approval. "You're really smart."

"Thank you."

After thanking him, I continued to bury myself in work, which involved coloring in the linearts I had previously saved.

Now that it was clear to me how much money I could make next month, I felt even more motivated. I used to feel tired whenever I had to work overtime, but now that I felt every bit of effort I put in was rewarded, I actually felt really relaxed.

I originally assumed that I would need ten days or more to finish coloring in the linearts I had saved, but I worked faster than even I had expected. By the time I called it a day, there were only a few pieces of lineart left to color.

I stretched lazily, looking at the computer screen. Based on my progress today, I should be able to finish coloring all the linearts I had accumulated by tomorrow.

So, what should I do next?

I calmly pondered the problem, but I just couldn't seem to think of another job to do. In the end, I decided not to force myself anymore—I'd just think about it another time.

I had plenty of time, after all.

…

With that said, I picked up my handbag and headed downstairs.

…

The meeting point Chloe had decided upon was a coffeehouse.

She had ordered a pot of expensive coffee. When she saw me arrive and sit down opposite her, she automatically poured me a cup of it.

"You haven't had coffee made from such premium coffee beans before, have you?" she asked.

I had always been perfectly aware that Chloe looked down on me, but I still hadn't expected her to act so childishly.

I pushed the coffee back toward her as I replied, "That's right. I can't afford such expensive coffee. Therefore, I'd rather refrain from drinking it, lest you ask me to pay half the bill when you call for it later."

Chloe stared at me.