The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Julia shook her head. "That's exactly why I can't stand Jessica. If it weren't for Casper's feelings-"

Gary got where she was coming from. "To be fair, we were the ones who messed up with Jessica first. When she's ready to come back, we owe it to her to make things right."

Julia wasn't thrilled about it but gave in to his push.

"Fine. If you say so," she muttered. Gary gave a low hum in reply.

Ruby noticed Gary and Julia hadn't reached out to her in days. A cold thread of suspicion began to unwind in her chest. They'd always doted on Lucas relentlessly, insisting on daily visits.

What could have changed? After getting Lucas to sleep, Ruby called Julia. "Mrs. Gibson..."

Julia frowned at Gary, whispering, "It's Ruby."

Gary's expression darkened instantly, but he kept his anger in check. "Don't let her know we were with Casper or that we've figured out the truth. If she wants to play games, we'll give her a taste of her own medicine."

Nodding, Julia smiled and forced a cheerful tone into her voice. "What is it?"

"Is everything okay? You haven't taken Lucas out for so long," Ruby asked.

"Everything's fine. We've just been busy trying to convince Casper to marry you," Julia said.noveldrama

Ruby's heart pounded in her ears. "But that shouldn't keep you from seeing Lucas."

Julia was known for her calm disposition, but her patience had worn thin by now. Ruby had been carrying another man's child and passed the boy off as their grandson! On top of that, she'd stolen the chance for Julia and Gary to spend time with their real grandson, Cody!

Biting back her bitterness, Julia replied, "But Casper's resisting. We're holding family meetings to work this out."

Ruby exhaled, relieved. "I was worried you wanted Casper back with Jessica, especially since he's insistent about it."

"Don't be ridiculous!" Julia shot back.

"Jessica's moved on. Even if Casper changed his mind, her new

t allow it." Contents

Ruby's tone turned sharp as if she'd picked up on something. "Oh? And what about you?"

"We're on your side, no question. You know how I feel about homewreckers," Julia stated firmly.

Satisfied, Ruby cooed, "Good. I'll wait to hear your plans."

Julia gave a low hum in response, ended the call, and met Gary's gaze.

"Keep her feeling at ease so she lets her guard down," he said.

"After lying to us for all this time, she'll get what she deserves," Julia hissed.

As Sherry returned from work, spotted Gavin waiting at the

entrance to her neighboel

Without a second thought, she

turned to leave.

Gavin rushed forward, cutting her off. "Are you done with all this drama?"

Sherry knew he wouldn't stop unless she put an end to it now. So, she stood her ground and met his gaze.

"You think this is just a drama?" she fired back.

"What else would you call it?" he snapped.

Sherry took a deep breath to steady

herself, then spoke with resolve.

"Then let me make one thing clear mean it. Gavin, after all the years we've been together, you should know this about me-when I make up my mind, there's no going back." Cóntent