Sweet Mischief’s Rollercoaster Romance novel Chapter 1205

Annie could feel the unexpected tenderness in Conner's rough demeanor, like the warmth of his touch seeping right through her clothes to her very core.

"It's almost the anniversary of your mom's passing," she said softly.

Conner's hand stilled on her back for a moment. Then, after a brief pause, he bent down to brush off the back of her pants, standing up with a teasing grin. "Remembering your future mother-in-law's anniversary, huh? Looks like you're head over heels for me."

Annie turned to face him, meeting his eyes. "Conner, I'm sorry."

Her apology took him by surprise. "Sorry? For what?"

"I should've gone back with you," Annie admitted, her voice just above a whisper. Ever since she agreed to marry Conner, she'd started to see herself as his fiancée, her heart making room for him. Inviting him to her dad's birthday wasn't just to show her parents she cared about him; maybe she truly wanted him there with her.

She'd never been with Conner to pay respects on his mom's anniversary.

"I've been swamped with work lately, no time to head back with you."

Conner chuckled, a rare, gentle smile softening his usually serious face. "For a second there, you had me worried. I thought it was something bigger. It's alright, Annie. Just knowing you care is enough."

"Did you come here today to ask me to go back with you?" Annie asked.

Conner nodded. "Annie, I want you by my side these days. I ticked off some dangerous folks hiding in the shadows, and I’m worried they might come after you when I'm not around. That's why I want you with me. If you can't, I'll see if someone else can cover for me."