The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 213

"Trying to win me over isn't going to work just because you messed up." Anthony shrugged off his jacket and draped it over Charlotte’s shoulders. His words sounded like a scolding, but his tone was soft and gentle, so much so that it barely felt like a reproach at all. "Next time you turn off your phone and vanish without a word, I’ll…"

Before he could finish, Charlotte tilted her chin up, long lashes fluttering as she fixed her bright gaze on him. "My hair’s uncomfortable," she cut in, brushing a few strands away from her face. Her hair was long and the wind kept blowing it into her eyes, making her squint.

Anthony pressed his lips together, then reached out to smooth her messy hair away from her cheeks. He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a gentle murmur. "Give me your hair tie."

"Okay." Charlotte answered simply, slipping her hand out of his pocket and holding out her wrist so he could take the hair tie himself.

Anthony's brow lifted, an amused smile flickering in his eyes. He slid the little black hair tie off her wrist, lingering just a moment longer than necessary, then carefully gathered her hair and tied it back. The whole time, Charlotte leaned into his shoulder, quiet and trusting, like a sleepy kitten.

"Let’s go home," Anthony said as he pulled the jacket a little tighter around her. His voice was easy and affectionate. "My car’s out of gas, so you’ll have to suffer through a cab ride with me."

Charlotte didn’t move, her clear eyes shining as she looked up at him. "I have a car," she said quietly.

A few minutes later, Charlotte rolled out of the parking garage on her own red motorcycle, the black trench coat making her look even more striking. She stopped right in front of Anthony, feet planted firmly on the ground, her whole posture cool and confident.

Anthony’s eyes narrowed slightly, a slow, thoughtful smile appearing. He’d seen her ride before, but never this close, never with her looking so in control.

"Lottie, you offering me a ride?"

The night air was cold, and as they sped along, Anthony noticed Charlotte’s face growing pale. He frowned, concern tightening his features. He leaned in, his voice just for her. "Lottie, pull over."

Charlotte immediately squeezed the brakes. Anthony got off first, then gently moved her back so he could take the driver’s seat.

Charlotte stared at him, confused. Was he taking her bike? Did he not trust her riding?

"The weather’s rough. I don’t want you catching a cold up front," he said, his tone patient as he adjusted her helmet. "I’d hate to see you get sick."

It would take at least forty minutes to get back to Imperial Heights. Charlotte glanced up at Anthony, her dark eyes searching his face. After a moment, she let out a soft breath, then wrapped her arms around his waist, holding on as if she’d never let go.