When His Perfect Mask Shattered I Awoke (Anneliese and Zacharias) novel Chapter 521

**TITLE: Created 521**
**Chapter 521 I Missed You**

“Your grandmother has unwavering faith in Jessica,” Jonathan said, his voice a soothing balm against the tumult of Anneliese’s anxious thoughts. His gaze locked onto hers, steady and reassuring, like a lighthouse guiding her through a stormy sea. “She has no idea that you’ve been struggling like this. If those nerves are still getting to you, why not grab a little snack, freshen up, and then give her a video call? It might just help ease your mind.”

As his words settled into her heart, a profound sense of relief enveloped Anneliese, wrapping around her like a warm embrace on a cold day. She leaned her head into the comforting palm of his hand, savoring the moment they shared, feeling a wave of gratitude wash over her.

“Thank you…” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, heavy with unspoken emotions.

Thank you for understanding me, for standing by my side, for rushing back just when I needed you the most.

Jonathan’s thumb glided gently along her soft earlobe, a tender caress that sent her heart racing. Yet, with a playful twist, he pinched it lightly, igniting a spark of mischief within her.

“Hm?” Anneliese blinked up at him, confusion dancing in her eyes, mixed with a hint of mock protest.

His expression shifted, concern etching itself into his features as he chuckled softly. “You nearly gave me a heart attack,” he replied, his tone half-serious, half-amused, a playful glint in his eyes.

A warmth blossomed in her chest, and the moisture of unshed tears threatened to spill over. She sniffled, overwhelmed by the emotional weight of the moment, feeling lighter yet more vulnerable than she had in a long time.

“Hubby, I missed you.”

Her words hung in the air, rare and vulnerable, an unguarded admission that she seldom allowed herself to voice.

For a fleeting instant, Jonathan was caught off guard, his usual stoicism faltering as her airy confession washed over him like a tide, dismantling the emotional barriers he had built around his heart.

His voice thickened with emotion, and a small, genuine smile began to form on his lips. “Say it clearly. Just how much did you miss me?”

Anneliese hesitated, pondering how to convey the depth of her feelings. How had she never realized how much he reveled in teasing her?

With a playful spark igniting in her eyes, she crooked a finger at him, beckoning him closer. Jonathan leaned down, curiosity dancing in the depths of his gaze, his heart racing with anticipation.

She curled her finger again, urging him to lower himself even further, until their noses almost brushed against one another, the world around them fading into oblivion.

His mind raced with possibilities, wondering what delightful mischief she was concocting, when suddenly, she puckered her lips and shot him a mischievous glare that seemed to mock his romantic instincts.

Jonathan chuckled, his deep-set eyes sparkling like stars scattered across a midnight sky, illuminating the space between them.

This was not just any smile; it held a confident, almost sultry edge that sent a delightful thrill coursing through Anneliese, igniting a warmth deep within her.

Her heart fluttered, her lashes quivering as she closed her eyes, bracing herself for the sweet kiss she hoped would follow.

But instead, he laughed softly, the teasing lilt in his voice sending delightful shivers down her spine. “So, baby, you were craving my body, huh?”

Surprise flickered in her eyes as her lashes fluttered in disbelief, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and amusement. Jonathan lifted a hand, gently tapping her nose with his knuckle, a playful gesture that made her huff in mock annoyance.

“Easy now. Behave yourself. You’re not fully recovered yet. Once you’re better, we’ll—”

Her lips remained adorably puckered, and as realization dawned on her that he was teasing, she huffed again, her eyes snapping open, and her fist cocked, ready to playfully thump him.

Jonathan allowed her to playfully hit him, fully aware that her tiny punches were more affectionate than forceful, a testament to their playful dynamic.

He grinned, watching as color returned to her cheeks, the shadows of fear and exhaustion lifting like morning mist, revealing the vibrant woman he adored. Quietly, he exhaled, feeling a serene sense of peace wash over him, grateful for this moment of levity.

They were newlyweds, blissfully in love, reunited after a brief but harrowing separation—each moment now charged with an intensity born from longing and desire.

When he had rushed in, Jonathan had caught snippets of Pepper’s taunts, but his focus had been solely on Anneliese’s condition. Everything else could wait.

Now, it was clear that a lot had transpired before his arrival, and the air crackled with unspoken words.

Jonathan cut her off, his voice sharp and unyielding as steel. “It makes sense. Just looking at you makes me sick.”

Gianna’s eyes widened in disbelief, unable to comprehend that she had heard him correctly.

A gentleman like Jonathan saying something so rude was utterly unthinkable, a betrayal of the decorum she expected from him.

She was the heiress of the Malone family; he should at least acknowledge the social ties between their families, or so she thought.

“And this is my home!” she shot back, her face flushed with indignation, her voice rising in defiance.

Jonathan’s lips curled into a sharp, measured smile, one that hinted at the storm brewing beneath the surface. “Apologize to my wife.”

**Conclusion**

In the aftermath of their reunion, Anneliese and Jonathan found themselves wrapped in a cocoon of intimacy, their connection fortified by the trials they had endured apart. The warmth of their bond radiated through the room, dispelling the lingering shadows of fear and uncertainty. Anneliese’s heartfelt admission, coupled with Jonathan’s playful teasing, allowed them to navigate the complexities of their emotions, transforming anxiety into laughter and love. As they embraced, the world outside faded away, leaving only the comforting presence of one another, a reminder that together they could weather any storm.

However, their moment of bliss was abruptly interrupted by Gianna’s unexpected arrival, a stark reminder of the challenges that lay ahead. The tension crackled in the air, hinting at the brewing conflict, as Jonathan’s fierce protectiveness over Anneliese clashed with Gianna’s indignation. Yet, even amid the turmoil, Anneliese felt a renewed sense of strength, bolstered by Jonathan’s unwavering support. Their love, once fragile, now stood resilient against external pressures, promising that together, they could confront any adversary. The emotional arc of their reunion had not only deepened their affection but also prepared them to face the complexities of their intertwined lives, united in love and determination.

**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the tension in the room escalates, readers can expect a riveting confrontation between Jonathan and Gianna that will test the boundaries of their relationships. With Jonathan’s protective instincts ignited, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Gianna back down, or will she attempt to defend her actions? The dynamics of their intertwined lives promise to unravel further, leading to unexpected alliances and revelations. Anneliese, caught in the crossfire, will have to navigate her own feelings and loyalties as her husband stands firm against the storm that Gianna represents.

Additionally, the chapter will delve deeper into Anneliese’s emotional journey, exploring how her recent experiences have reshaped her understanding of love and vulnerability. Expect poignant moments as she grapples with her feelings for Jonathan amidst the chaos. The playful banter between the couple may take a more serious turn, revealing hidden insecurities and desires that could change their relationship forever. With the potential for new challenges on the horizon, readers will be left on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how Anneliese and Jonathan will confront both external conflicts and their own hearts.