The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 559

Willow pouted but compromised nonetheless. "We'll braid our hair first, then head to the playground afterward if we have time."

I smiled. "All right."

Willow took her seat at the table and stared at the bunny-shaped pudding in amazement. She turned the plate to inspect the pudding from all angles, exclaiming, "It looks exactly like that one at the counter!"

Penelope removed the clear lid from the plate and gently tapped the pudding with the back of her spoon. It jiggled, making the pudding bunny look like it was bouncing in place. It was adorable; I'd admit that much.

Thrilled by this, Penelope showed Willow the same trick. The latter's mouth parted into a perfect "O" as she mused, "Wow!"

Penelope asked, "Is something wrong?"

Willow seemed disappointed as she said, "I can't bear to eat it…"

Penelope glanced at Willow, then at her own pudding. "Me, neither."

I ruffled Willow's hair affectionately and suggested, "Why don't you start with your burger and fries?"

"Okay!" Willow and Penelope dug into their meals immediately, though they couldn't keep their eyes off the pudding. I tried not to laugh as I shook my head.

I picked up my burger and stared at it dubiously. Kids seemed to love burgers, but how good were they? Curiosity prompted me to take a bite. Sure enough, the flavors didn't quite meet my expectations.

I looked at Willow and saw her ravenously chowing down on her burger, just like Penelope. Perhaps my palate was different from theirs.

When the kids finished their food, Willow eyed the pudding wistfully again and muttered, "I'll just have a bite…" She took her spoon, gently sliced it through the pudding, and then ate it. She closed her eyes. "It's delicious!"