The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 193

Anthony squeezed Charlotte’s hand, his voice low and teasing as they walked. “Kenneth looks ready to explode. If things get ugly, Lottie, what’s your plan?”

Charlotte let him lead her along without a word. She turned, meeting Anthony’s dark, captivating eyes, and a faint smile curled at her lips. “Probably just stand by and watch the drama.”

Heartless, he thought, but he couldn’t hide the fondness in his eyes. Anthony’s mouth quirked in a helpless smile, soft and full of affection.

Inside the car, Anthony and Kenneth sat on either side of Charlotte. She scrolled through her phone, pretending she didn’t notice the tension pressing in on all sides. Kenneth couldn’t take his eyes off her, his grin growing wider every second. Charlotte’s confidence made it hard for him to find his words.

After a long, awkward pause, Kenneth finally worked up the nerve. He pulled out a pack of snacks from his bag and offered it to her, his voice gentle. “Lottie, want some snacks? I can feed you if you want.”

The cookies smelled like durian.

“Lottie doesn’t eat durian,” Anthony said lightly, his arm stretched across the back of Charlotte’s seat as he watched her phone screen.

Charlotte frowned but didn’t say anything. Her silence was answer enough.

Kenneth dug around in his bag again, this time producing a box of liquor chocolates. “Lottie…”

“Lottie gets tipsy from alcohol,” Anthony said with a quiet laugh. He leaned in close, his voice rough and playful. “She’s not very well-behaved when she’s drunk. Always tries to get out of trouble.”

Charlotte nearly dropped her phone, caught off guard.

Kenneth refused to give up. He held up a strawberry candy, forcing a smile. “You’ll eat this, right? My aunt likes candy, too.”

“Yeah,” Anthony said, arching a brow. His hand slid down behind Charlotte and gently found hers. He laughed softly. “That’s perfect for Lottie.”

Before he could say anything else, Charlotte stopped. She turned and walked straight back to Anthony.

Kenneth stared, completely baffled.

Anthony frowned, bending a little so his eyes were level with hers, his gaze warm and steady. “What’s wrong? Don’t worry. Your grandpa and uncle are both really nice.”

Today was a family reunion, and Anthony knew he didn’t belong. Maybe when Charlotte was older, he’d come visit properly.

“I’ll wait right here for you, Lottie. I’m not leaving.” He squeezed her hand, his voice soft and reassuring. “If you’re not coming back tonight, just send me a text and I’ll…”

Before he could finish, Charlotte shoved her backpack into his arms and looked up at him, her pale face unreadable.