When His Perfect Mask Shattered I Awoke (Anneliese) novel Chapter 714

"You two might want to dial it back," a cool voice teased from nearby. "At this rate, you'll be trending before the night's over."

The words danced with playful mischief, aimed at the couple whose closeness drew the air around them, their focus on each other nearly electric.

Anneliese turned her head.

Steven stood nearby, with Ellie in his arms and Wendy by his side. Their attentive watching made it clear they had been there for some time.

The corridor buzzed with life, but every passerby slowed, curiosity flickering in their eyes as they stole glances at the scene unfolding.

Anneliese had claimed first place, and Jonathan presented her award in front of a buzzing crowd. Their earlier appearance had already set the internet alight. Now, side by side, roses in Anneliese's arms, their closeness was impossible to ignore. They were the center of every gaze.

Anneliese's lashes fluttered as a blush crept across her cheeks. She eased from Jonathan's embrace, only for his arm to find her waist again, steady and sure, silently declaring his place at her side.

Only after that did he look at Steven and say, "Sounds like someone's jealous."

He thought, Jealous, huh? I have my wife right here in my arms, while your little girl keeps growing, and your wife is nowhere to be seen.

Anneliese gave Jonathan's sleeve a gentle tug, a quiet reminder that elders and a child were watching.

Steven didn't bother responding. He merely lifted an eyebrow, unimpressed.

Ellie, however, reached toward Anneliese.

Anneliese passed the roses to Jonathan and stepped forward, lifting Ellie into her arms.

Ellie recalled the promise she made during the break. When Anneliese picked her up, she immediately hugged her, gave her a loud kiss on the cheek, and showed a triumphant thumbs-up.

Anneliese smiled gently, her eyes warm. "Thanks for cheering me on. Want to see my trophy?"

Ellie's eyes widened instantly. She nodded hard, lips parting.

Anneliese's attention snapped to that tiny mouth.

Steven did too.

Ellie's lips moved, but no sound followed.

Nevertheless, they both saw it clearly.

The shape was unmistakably an "Okay."

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