The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 114

Steven whispered to Jessica, "You should go ahead and look around. I just spotted someone I know, so I'm going to say hi. I'll come back and pay for it."

Jessica was too focused on the jewelry display. "Sure."

Steven headed upstairs.

…

Staring at the wall of ties, I thought it through.

Zane usually wore classic black suits. Lots of ties would work, but knowing his style…

I settled on a deep navy blue and reached for it to pay.

"Pick another color. I don't like that one."

I turned, only to find Steven standing there, grinning.

What did his preferences have to do with anything? It was not even for him.

I gave him a weird look before heading to checkout. "How much?"

"That will be 160 dollars," the cashier said with a smile.

It was pricey but affordable for me. I pulled out my card to pay.

The cashier wrapped it up and handed me the bag.

I then thanked her before making a quick exit.

…

Steven's smile widened as he watched Annalise walk away.

Did she really think picking a color he hated would throw him off? He knew it was for him.

Zane stared at the tie for a long moment before asking, "Would you mind tying it for me?"

I was shocked. "Don't you know how to tie a tie?"

I walked to his side.

He shook his head. "No. I usually just get them pre-tied at the store. I only slip them on when needed."

I could not help laughing at the image. "That's practical indeed."

He loosened his current tie. "So, Annalise..."

I opened the box of the new tie and draped it around his neck. Then, I adjusted the length before tying it around his neck. "Yeah?"

His voice became low and alluring. "Would you tie my ties from now on?"

"Sure," I said easily, finishing the knot and fixing his collar.