The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven) novel Chapter 663

I had just hit send on my message when I heard a knock at the door. I scrambled out of bed and opened it.

Zane stood in the doorway.

Confused, I asked, "What's the matter?"

He pulled me into his arms, his voice trembling with excitement. "I'm just so happy!"

I studied him closely. At that moment, I realized he loved me even more deeply than I had ever imagined.

The memory of Steven came rushing back. When he first agreed to be with me, he looked like he was about to cry.

I had no idea back then that his heart already belonged to someone else. Seeing him so emotional, I told myself I'd give it my all since he loved me that much.

Only later did I learn the truth—those tears weren't for me. They were for the person he truly loved but couldn't have.

Zane, however, was nothing like Steven. The cold, distant expression Zane usually wore had melted into an unguarded smile. He was glowing with happiness—because soon, he would be my husband.

I cradled his face between my hands. "Thank you for loving me, truly caring about me, and letting me be your wife."

He kissed me without hesitation, and the world around us seemed to vanish when our lips met.

"Thank you for allowing me to care for you," he whispered.

My legs faltered, but before I could fall, his hand was at my waist, steadying me. With no room to back away, he kissed me harder.

…

After a long pause, the door finally opened.

"Have you eaten?" Jessica asked, holding his gaze.

Steven didn't answer. Instead, he questioned, "Do you even realize what time it is?"

"I do." Jessica's voice was steadier than usual. "I was at home, thinking you might not have had dinner yet, and I couldn't stop worrying about it."

Though she hadn't cooked a single thing, she made sure it seemed like she had.

"I'm pregnant, and everything feels exhausting, but I still brought you a meal," she mumbled with a smile. "Please eat. I'll feel bad if you don't, and the baby won't be happy either."