The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 2059

Seeing the girl suddenly appear in the doorway, Roger set his glass down. His dark eyes, hazy from the alcohol, locked onto her.

She was wearing a soft silk robe, her hair only half-dried. The robe slipped slightly, revealing her pale, bare shoulders, giving her an effortlessly messy, breathtaking kind of beauty that tugged at his heartstrings.

"You're still awake?"

Roger's Adam's apple bobbed as he forced himself to look away. He leaned over to pick up the knocked-over wine bottle, his voice rough. "Why aren't you wearing slippers?"

Before she could answer, he stood up, closed the distance between them, and scooped her up into his arms, carrying her over and placing her gently on his bed.

Roger didn't pull away. He planted both hands on either side of her, his face hovering just inches from hers. The sweet, intoxicating scent of alcohol radiating from him effortlessly drifted into her senses.

"Are you..."

Stella's heart raced wildly. She tilted her chin up, her starry eyes meeting his. "Why are you drinking?" she asked softly.

He hadn't touched a drop at the twins' celebration.

Now, in the dead of night, he was suddenly...

"Did something happen?" When he didn't answer, Stella grabbed his right hand, her voice laced with worry. "If something is bothering you, you can tell me."

"I might not be able to fix it, but I can share the burden with you."

"Share the burden with me?"

Roger looked down at her. His eyes were as deep as the ocean, and a wicked, irresistible smirk played on his lips.

How could he ever bear to let her share his burdens?

"Yes."

Stella nodded, answering with absolute sincerity. "Don't you trust me?"

She wasn't someone who couldn't handle hardship.

No matter what it was, she was ready to face it with him.

Because they were husband and wife.

"I trust you."

Right before she completely ran out of breath, Roger finally pulled back. He buried his face in her shoulder, pressing against her neck as he dragged in heavy, ragged breaths.

"I'm sorry."

Knowing he might have scared her, Roger gently patted her back, his voice thick with regret as he tried to soothe her. "It's too late. Go back to sleep."

With that, he picked her back up, carried her to her own room, and set her down on her bed.

"Don't worry. If you aren't ready, I'll never force you," he said, his brows furrowed as he patiently explained. "I had a little too much to drink and lost control. It won't happen again."

Stella lowered her head. Her lips were still burning, and her cheeks were flushed with an intense heat. Her chest felt tight with a pang of guilt.

Since they got married, they were officially husband and wife.

But to protect her feelings and make sure she felt safe, Roger always kept his distance, never once crossing the line.

"Alright."

Roger reined in his emotions. He ruffled her hair and stood up. "I'm heading out. Goodnight."