Sweet Mischief’s Rollercoaster Romance novel Chapter 1622

Milka said, “You know, I remember you used to be a lot easier on the eyes.”

Mars shot her a look. “Excuse me, I look just fine now.”

They reached the restaurant.

It was the same spot where Milka had first bumped into Mars after coming back home—his godson had swiped someone’s roses, and Mars had promised to buy a new bouquet to make up for it.

By the time Mars got there, the couple with the roses was long gone.

Milka grinned, settling into her seat. “That little dumpling, so chubby and cute. Good thing he’s not your actual kid—you could never make something that adorable.” She remembered poor Henry’s face, all hurt and confused, and couldn’t help but chuckle. She’d even started to wonder if she was in the wrong—why did roses have to come with thorns, anyway?

Mars grabbed the menu and rattled off a few dishes. “Not my son by blood, but it’s close enough. And don’t jinx me. For all we know, my real kid might come from you one day.”

He handed the menu back to the waiter.

Milka huffed. “I didn’t even get to order.”

Mars poured them both water. “Relax, you always order the same few things. I got it covered.”

The restaurant was softly lit and almost too quiet as they waited for their food.

Last time, they’d both brought someone else—well, Mars’s “date” had been an energetic little tiger cub. This time, it was just the two of them. Mars glanced at her. “Didn’t you say you were planning to settle abroad? What brought you back?”

Milka let out a sigh. “My dad’s old injury is acting up again. His doctor keeps complaining he won’t cooperate with treatment. A few years back, he could tough it out, but now he’s getting older and hates admitting it. My mom told me to come back and keep him in line.”

Their families just assumed it was all settled—once Milka graduated and found her footing, they’d get engaged and tie the knot.

But then, the year Milka finished school, her parents’ marriage fell apart. As their only kid, she got stuck right in the middle, working herself ragged trying to hold everything together. No one wants to see their family break up. She felt like duct tape, desperately trying to mend what was already coming apart at the seams.

Her dad was stubborn to the core—a lifetime spent in charge meant he didn’t listen to anyone. Her mom, Abby, always gave in, knowing her husband was a war hero, always letting things slide. Sometimes Milka felt bad for her, watching her swallow so much. Milka herself refused to settle; she’d rather argue and make Mars compromise than give in herself.

That time, Abby just wanted her husband to back down, just once.

But Mr. Arrowood didn’t seem to see how serious things were—he wouldn’t budge. Over something tiny, the whole family finally blew up.

Milka started sleeping on the couch in the living room, just in case her mom decided to leave in the middle of the night.