Chapter 897
Chapter 897:
“Really?” Rupert’s expression remained stone-cold. “Are you finished working p>
“We’re done,” Annabel replied with a calm shrug.
“Since you’re finished, Rory, why don’t you leave?” Rupert asked without hesitation. He could tell from the way Rory looked at Annabel that he still wasn’t over her. It upset him immensely.
Feeling the tension fill the room, Annabel stepped between them. “You can go, Rory. I’ll see you at the ceremony p>
“Alright.” Disappointment flickered in Rory’s eyes as he stood to leave.
The moment the front door closed, Annabel turned to Rupert, her face tightening in frustration. “Why are you jealous? We were just talking about work, and you scared him away p>
“I saw another man alone with my wife. Shouldn’t I be jealous?” Rupert pulled her into his arms, lowering his voice.
Annabel blushed as he tilted her face up by her chin.
Rupert suddenly felt his throat tighten. He hadn’t been close to Annabel for a long time, and the jealousy burning in him moments ago made it impossible to hold back. He wrapped her tightly in his arms and kissed her hard.
“Oh, you…” Annabel didn’t even get to finish before Rupert kissed her again.
This time, he deepened it—prying her lips apart and drawing her in until she could only clutch his shoulder for balance, wrinkling his suit as she leaned into him. She was on his lap, forced to tilt her head back slightly just to keep up with the intensity.
“Annabel…” Rupert’s voice turned low and teasing as his hands traced along her waist, then tugged lightly at the hem of her shirt. “I missed you so much p>
Without warning, he lifted her into his arms, carried her into the bedroom, and laid her on the bed. Hovering over her, he stroked his fingers down her face, along her neck, and over her collarbone. Then he kissed her again—but unlike the possessive kiss from before, this one was gentle, careful, and full of longing.
Annabel’s heartbeat quickened, nerves blooming in her chest. She didn’t push him away, but the moment she felt her clothes starting to slip, reality snapped back into focus. She caught his hand, eyes still hazy, and said softly, “Rupert, I know you miss me. I missed you too. But it’s not the time. Let’s not do this, okay p>
Her tone was tender, but her refusal was firm. The more she spoke, the clearer her mind became.
Rupert looked momentarily at a loss.
“Didn’t you say you would respect me?” Annabel sighed, gently pushing him back. She held his gaze steadily, refusing to waver.
Rupert’s breathing was heavy, desire still flashing in his eyes. “But I can’t wait any longer,” he murmured.
“We really can’t do this right now.” Annabel didn’t bend. “You promised me, so keep it p>
Rupert’s eyes darkened. He stared at Annabel for a long moment, desire still smoldering in his gaze. In the end, he forced himself to compromise.
“Okay.” He released her hand and sat beside her, looking almost helpless.
Annabel could tell how hard he was holding himself back, and guilt tugged at her. She placed her slender hands on his shoulders and leaned into him, resting against his chest. “We still have a long time ahead of us, don’t we p>