The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 645

"I'm looking for Zachary. Tell him to come out," Steven demanded.

Portia, alarmed by his aggressive stance, stepped forward protectively. "Tell me what you want with him. I'm his guardian. I'll only let him see you if I'm certain you won't harm him."

With no parents to shield him, she was Zachary's sole protector.

Steven's anger simmered, but he was cultured and would not attack an elderly, much less a woman. "I have no intention of hurting you. If you don't want to suffer my wrath, bring him out now."

Just then, Zachary appeared beside Portia. "Grandma, please go inside. He wants to speak with me. It'll be a father-son conversation."

Portia was worried. "Look at him. Does he look like he's in any state to talk calmly?"

Zachary smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry. I can handle this."

"He looks furious," she warned.

"I know, but tigers don't eat their cubs. He won't hurt me, Grandma; I'll be upset if you don't leave now."

With that, Portia retreated to the bedroom. The moment the door closed, Steven raised his hand and slapped Zachary across the face.

"How could you be so cruel?" he hissed.

Zachary, who was still just a child, crumpled to the floor from the force of the blow. His ears rang, and his mind went blank.