The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1121

Watching them huddled together under the soft glow of the nightlight, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy. Mostly, though, he just felt relieved. All he needed to do now was get Lottie to take the antidote and wait for the next one. If they couldn’t find another, well, maybe that was just fate. No matter what happened, whether life or death, he’d stay by Nora’s side.

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In the living room, Nora clung to Charlotte, checking her over from head to toe.

Charlotte didn’t move, letting her mother fuss over her. Usually she was the impatient one, always rolling her eyes or pulling away. But tonight she was quiet, obedient, following every little instruction, lifting her arms or turning around when asked.

Once Nora was sure Charlotte was okay, the tension in her face finally eased.

Charlotte shrugged, her fingertips brushing lightly against Nora’s cheek. “You look skinnier,” she said, an easy smile in her voice. “Not eating enough?”

Franco came over just then, someone trailing behind him with a steaming bowl of soup. He set it down beside Nora and spoke softly, “Helen just made this. You should have some while it’s hot.”

Over the years, Nora had eaten more supplements and tonics than she could count. Lately, though, she’d started refusing them for reasons she couldn’t explain. Franco, knowing her well, never pushed too hard.

“I don’t want any,” Nora said quietly, shaking her head.

Franco looked at her, his heart melting a little at the pleading in her eyes. For a moment, he almost agreed.

Before he could say anything, Charlotte reached over and took the bowl. She picked up the spoon, stirring the soup slowly. “I was the one who asked Helen to make this,” she said.

“Lottie, can I please skip it this time?” Nora wrinkled her nose, staring at the dark soup in the bowl. Even she couldn’t tell what was in it.

“Nope,” Charlotte said, not budging an inch. She scooped up a spoonful and held it to Nora’s lips, patient but firm. “Come on, it’s good for you. Just a few sips.”

Nora frowned and shot Franco a look, hoping for backup.

Charlotte caught it right away. “Don’t bother looking at Dad. He’s not going to help you.” She took Nora’s wrist and led her to the sofa, coaxing her gently. “I’m in charge tonight.”

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