The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 332

1 spoke slowly, my tone calm. “When it comes to material aspects, Zane clearly treats me better. On top of that, he respects me more. No first love lurking in the background, and no entanglements in messy emotions.” 

Steven quickly retorted, “What if he’s just like me? What if he has a first love who hasn’t come back in town yet? 

That, I thought, had little to do with me. But Trouldn’t say that outright. As I milled over how to respond, Steven pressed further. 

“Can you guarantee that if his supposed true love comes back, he won’t be worse than me? Here comes the home. 

Zane sat down beside me. “Mi. Pelham, I’d like to take this opportunity to ask you something too. Who exactly is this supposed true love of mine? 

Zane felt aware of relief wash over him. It was a good thing he had followed along; otherwise, if Steven’s nonsense had been allowed to continue unchecked, his path would undoubtedly become even more challenging 

Steven froeal Zane’s pointed question 

Zane’s one was key as he spoke. “I understand the pain of losing someone you love, but that doesn’t give you the right to spread baseless rumors.” 

Seven’s expression hardened. “Can you sweat that, from childhood until now, Annalise is the only woman you’ve ever had feelings for?” 

Zane responded calmly. “Absolutely” 

Steven soled. “That’s imposable” 

Zane’s expression didn’t waver, but his lips curled into a faint smick. “Oh?” 

To win Annalise over 

Steven pressed on, almost triumphant. “Everyone has moments of infatuation when they’re young. You must have, too. You’ve been surrounded by outstanding people your whole life. there’s no way you haven’t felt attracted to at least one or two of them.” 

His certainty was almost as if he had uncoveted undeniable proof of Zane’s dishonesty 

Zane, however, kaned back again the couch, unfazed. “I was focused on studying during school 

“In university, I was busy building my career. I didn’t have time for such distractions. Unlike you, it seems. You’ve always had plenty of time to dwell on love 

Steven’s face trose as he struggled on acce 

Bane stood, reaching for my hand. “Let’s go.” 

“Alright.” 1 followed him out, all processing what had just happened 

Even as we reached the company lobby, I couldn’t help but ask, “Really? You’ve never had feelings for anyone during your school years?” 

Zane’s response was immediate and numes–of–fact. “Never.” 

He shrugged. “I guess I gave much thought to relationships 

“In high school, I was too focused on goofing off. Then I got serious about my studies, which left go room for anything else 

“And when university caround, I was consumed by my business ventures.”