The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

"More importantly, Jessica spilled the oil on the stairs herself. Think about it. How could a small child like me carry such a heavy container of oil?

"The security cameras were also blocked. How could a child my size climb high enough to cover them?"

Zachary realized Steven's naivety bordered on foolishness. He even wondered if the company would survive long under his father's leadership.

Suddenly, Zachary felt relieved that Steven had cut ties with him. Otherwise, debt collectors might come after him one day, given the substantial amount of money he still possessed.

Steven stared at Zachary. "You might not have done it yourself, but couldn't you have hired someone?"

Zachary didn't deny the accusations. "If that's what you believe, so be it. Now, I assume Jessica's baby is safe?"

Steven didn't contradict him.

"You've also slapped me," Zachary said, his hearing slightly impaired from the blow. "Are you satisfied now? Can you leave?"

Steven was taken aback by Zachary's calm composure. Though irritated, he couldn't deny the truth in his words.

"Yes, I'm leaving," he said.

As Steven turned and left, Zachary called after him, "I've prepared a gift for you. I hope you'll like it when you receive it."

Steven froze mid-step. "Don't send me anything. I'm not your father anymore."

Zachary smiled. Two adults ganging up on him? If he didn't fight back Jessica would likely blame him for future incidents. He had no intention of being a perpetual victim

As Steven vanished from sight, Zachary took out his phone and called the police.

The officers arrived swiftly. To

prevent Portia from unnecessary worry, Zachary whispered to the

officers to speak quietly out of

concern for an elderly residental net

Seeing his swollen face and, impressed by his maturity, they agreed. noveldrama

After reviewing the security footage, they needed to take Zachary to the station. Before leaving, he called Portia.

"Grandma, Steven came by to tell me a classmate wants a sleepover. We're close friends, so I'd like to stay the night. Is it okay if I don't come home?"

Portia fretted, "I'm not comfortable with you being alone."

Zachary replied cheerfully, "You can ask Harry to accompany me. I'm already in Steven's car. I'll give Harry the address later. Just have him follow us."

Portia relented, "All right. Steven didn't mistreat you, did he?"

Though his face still stung, Zachary didn't want to speak the truth. He knew Portia would feel guilty. So, he said cheerfully, "Don't worry. This is my territory. He'd be asking for trouble if he dared bully me.

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