The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

Chapter 188

Jessica looked up at Steven, her tearful eyes fixed on him. Her right hand instinctively rested on her stomach.

"Steven, think about it. It seems you don't really love me or this all that much. Maybe I should just get rid of the baby," she said, her tone laced with a sob.

Steven felt a surge of irritation, though he concealed it with a comforting smile.

"Why would you think that?"

He held her hand, resisting the discomfort that physical closeness with her brought.

"Jessica, I'm a straightforward person. I'm not used to saying how I feel. I care about you and the baby in my own way. So, stop worrying and just focus on resting at home."

Steven then took out a card and handed it to her. "If you want something, go ahead and buy it."

Jessica's eyes widened in surprise, glistening with emotion. "Is this really mine?"

"Yes."

from her. Yet, for reasons he couldn't quite explain, the idea of spending a lifetime with Jessica felt suffocating. He found himself picturing

card away in her

waiting for her to calm down before excusing himself, citing

she made her way to a nearby mall, where she shopped

somewhat appeased, she settled into

the Huxham Corporation," she told the

until now, but

...

for the day, even finishing the final touches on the game department's poster coloring, when I got a call from

I answered casually, "Hello?"

Jessica's tone held none of its

interested,"

you afraid of

any contact with Jessica. Her request made me reluctantly recall

it, I realized that fear wasn't the right word-disgust

replied calmly, "Why would