The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Zane explained, "Tinsley happened to be at home when she overheard what Chloe said, and she thought it was ridiculous. Plus, my mom was indeed convinced. After Chloe left, Tinsley immediately sat down with my mom to reason with her. "She told my mom not to believe Chloe's words. My mom was finally convinced after a long conversation. After she was completely convinced and had given up on going after you, Tinsley called me to inform me what had happened." Zane gently traced his thumb along my face and continued, "Ever since you came into my life, it feels like everything that happens to me is good."

I didn't argue and lifted my head to look at him. "So you'd better cherish me," I said seriously.

Zane cupped my face with both hands and slowly leaned in for a kiss. His warm lips pressed against mine.

I closed my eyes, enjoying the kiss.

Zane whispered in my ear, "It wasn't easy for me to get you. I'll definitely not let you go."

He noticed Steven showing up near the company every day to confess or find fault, just to see Annalise. It was clear that Steven must have regretted divorcing Annalise.

Zane didn't want to follow in Steven's footsteps. Therefore, he was determined to address any potential issues between him and Annalise.

Steven's car was parked not far away. The surroundings were completely dark, with only the streetlights still shining.

...

He stood alone outside the villa, feeling an unprecedented sense of loneliness. In the past, he would have been at home at this hour, Annalise would prepare a meakfor him and patiently wait for him to return.

The house wasn't particularly lively, but at least there was someone there. He wasn't lonely.

Now, Steven felt like there wasn't a single person around.

As Steven watched Annalise and

Zane on the balcony being affectionate with each other, he couldn't help but wonder if he and Annalise had such moments of intimacy during their six years of marriage.

He quickly replayed their time together, and it dawned on him that there seemed to be none.

Steven had always believed that he loved Jessica. Thus, when Annalise wanted to be close to him, he would find ways to avoid her.

The closest they ever came to being affectionate was him sitting on the couch and Annalise resting her head on his shoulder.

Steven's eyes reddened. Every time Annalise mustered the courage to get close to him, she was rejected. It must have pained her every time.

Steven felt as if someone were

carving at his heart with a knife. He

watched as Zane offered her thenoveldrama

intimacy she needed without hesitation.

Annalise was now radiating confidence, calm, and happiness. She no longer seemed forced or uncomfortable as she had when they were together.

As her ex-husband, Steven should be happy for her. However, he couldn't quite explain why he felt this way.