The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1955

“...”

The garden fell into a heavy, quiet stillness.

It wasn't until all the fish food was gone that Roger finally turned to face Stella, gently taking her hand in his.

“Roger...”

Stella was startled by the sudden physical contact and nervously scanned their surroundings.

Even though they had held hands before, this was the Gates family estate. There were people everywhere.

She didn't want to cause trouble for him.

“Don't move.”

Roger held her hand firmly but gently. He pulled out an antibacterial wipe he had prepared in advance and began meticulously cleaning her fingers. “Fish food leaves a residue. You don't want it getting on your clothes.”

“...”

Watching the man's incredibly gentle motions, a wave of emotion crashed over Stella. She fought hard to keep her expression neutral.

But true affection, even when unspoken, always found a way to bleed through the eyes.

“Let's go.”

Once her hands were clean, he led her back toward the main house.

Just before they reached the doors, he deliberately let go of her hand and took back his coat, ensuring she wouldn't feel awkward walking back inside.

“Don't be scared.” Roger murmured, looking down at her with a reassuring gaze. “My mother has no filter.”

“When she likes someone, her enthusiasm borders on aggressive. But she doesn't mean any harm.”

“I know.”

Stella nodded seriously. “Samantha is a wonderful person.”

“Then there's no need to worry.” Roger reached out, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. His voice was a low, comforting rumble. “You still have time. Think about it carefully.”

The underlying message was crystal clear.

Her past and her identity would never be an obstacle between them.

She could drop her walls and be with him.

“Go on inside,” he urged.

Knowing she was still hesitant, he deliberately held back so they wouldn't enter together. “If you feel uncomfortable, just stick close to Charlotte.”

“Okay.”

Stella gave a small nod. She cast one long, deep look at him before turning and walking inside.

After dinner.

Stella was sitting in Charlotte's room, quietly chatting with her friend.

A light knock came at the door.

She saw the girl standing perfectly still in the center of the room, hands neatly folded in front of her, her eyes cast downward.

So well-behaved, so agonizingly polite.

It broke Samantha's heart just to look at her.

Frowning slightly, Samantha picked up her pace, practically sprinting back to her suite.

“Samantha!”

Hearing the door open, Stella immediately offered a polite greeting.

“Be seated, please.”

Samantha hurried over, enveloping Stella's hands in hers and guiding her to the sofa. “Silly girl, from now on, treat the Gates estate like your own home. There's no need to be so stiff!”

Stella merely smiled, not quite knowing how to respond.

“I was so busy earlier sorting out Shirley's study abroad plans that I completely neglected you...” Samantha sat right next to her, her gaze overflowing with maternal warmth. “I'm so sorry, sweetheart.”

“Not at all.”

Stella quickly shook her head, offering a genuine smile. “I had a wonderful time.”

“Really?”

Samantha's smile widened. After a few more minutes of pleasantries, she pulled out a velvet jewelry box and opened it. “Actually, since this is our first official meeting...”