The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1942

The car fell into a thick silence. After a long moment, Roger's unhurried voice broke the tension. "That guy from earlier... a classmate?"

"Yeah." Stella glanced at him, answering truthfully before adding, "I ran into him at the library."

"Oh." Hearing her voluntary explanation, the corner of Roger's mouth curled up slightly. "Do you like cake?"

She didn't quite catch his drift, but there was a distinct edge of sarcasm in his tone. Stella parted her lips, unsure of how to answer. She did like cake, just not when it came from random strangers.

Just then, the car pulled up to their destination, shattering the awkward atmosphere. They stepped out of the vehicle together.

Roger threw a cold glance at the cake box resting on the passenger seat. "Mango? Is that your favorite?"

"Huh?" Stella turned around, shaking her head in confusion.

"Good." Roger looked at the driver, his expression totally deadpan. "Get rid of it."

Stella was speechless.

"Yes, sir," the driver nodded, watching the two of them walk away.

Roger led the way, with Stella trailing slowly behind him. As they reached the entrance, Roger suddenly stopped. Caught off guard, she couldn't brake in time and bumped right into his solid back.

"Careful." Roger reacted instantly, turning and catching her securely against his chest. He gently rubbed her forehead, his voice softening. "Did that hurt?"

"No." Stella shook her head, a flush rising to her cheeks.

"You're still such a kid. Can't even walk without tripping?" He chuckled, releasing his hold but seamlessly lacing his fingers through hers. His gaze darkened slightly. "Let's go."

Glancing down at their joined hands, Stella pressed her lips together and mumbled, "I am not."

Roger cast a sideways glance at her. She was being surprisingly obedient today.

After dinner, Roger had the waiter pack two more slices of cake to go. "Share these with your roommates," he said gently.

"Thank you." His thoughtfulness sent a rush of warmth straight to her heart.

When they arrived back at Kingswood University, Roger suddenly caught her wrist just as she was about to step out. His tone was serious. "I have a few psychology books at my place that would be incredibly helpful for your grad school prep. Let's exchange numbers. I can send you the material, and it'll be easier to stay in touch."

Stella blinked, her long lashes fluttering as she processed his words.

"That's right," Roger said, meeting her eyes. A wicked smirk tugged at his lips as he admitted with zero shame, "But mostly, it'll make it a lot easier for me to court you."

Stella's face erupted in flames, her composure crumbling. The man was dangerously smooth.