The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1751

Outside Kingswood University, Charlotte sat quietly on the stone steps. Her knees were pressed together, backpack hugged to her chest, head drooping. She looked like a forgotten doll waiting to be picked up.

From his car, Anthony spotted her right away. The sight brought a rush of memories. The first few times they met again after so many years apart, he always seemed to be running late. And every time, he’d find Charlotte like this, sitting in silence, quietly upset.

“Stop the car.”

The words came out sharp. Anthony’s brow knitted as he barely waited for the car to stop before jumping out. He hurried over, long strides eating up the distance until he was crouched down in front of her.

“Hey, waiting for someone?”

He reached out, ruffling her hair with a gentle, warm touch.

Charlotte looked up, her eyes still so bright it almost startled him. Their gazes met and she felt her heart stutter. She pouted, trying to hide the tiny smile threatening to break through. “Why are you so late?”

“There was an accident downtown. Got stuck in traffic.”

Without a second thought, Anthony slipped off his jacket, tucking it gently around her shoulders before pulling her close. Her cheek was cool against his jaw as he held her, his words soft and coaxing. “Did I make you wait too long?”

“Also...” Charlotte glanced down at her stomach, a little frown settling on her forehead. “They’re not happy either. You owe us all an apology.”

Those two little troublemakers again.

Maybe it was because she’d said mean things about Anthony, or maybe she was just grumpy, but her stomach had felt unsettled ever since she got into the car.

“They’re upset, and they’re teaming up on me...” The more she talked, the more pitiful she felt. Tears pricked her eyes as she glared at him. “Are you just going to stand there and do nothing?!”

Anthony’s heart nearly folded in on itself. He reached out, tender as ever, stroking her stomach just the way she liked. “Alright, alright, I’ll fix it. Daddy promises he’ll be on time from now on, okay? Tell Mommy not to be so mad.”

He looked at her belly with a mock serious face. “And you two, stop giving Mom a hard time.”

“I wouldn’t dare bully her. Guess you two are braver than me.”

“Now you’re just playing along.” Charlotte pressed her forehead to his chest, warm breath ghosting along his shoulder. She still wasn’t in a good mood.

“I mean it.” Anthony kissed her forehead, gentle as always. “I had Helen bake you a cake. Want to eat some when we get back?”

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