The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 243

As Charlotte realized what it was, a flash of surprise flickered in her eyes. She looked a little lost, almost adorably so.

Anthony set her gently onto a chair, his hand settling behind her as he smiled. “You play the piano really well. If you get the chance, play for me again.”

“My fee isn't cheap,” Charlotte replied, closing her eyes and relaxing into his arms. Her chin rested on his shoulder, and she looked just like a lazy kitten, perfectly content.

Anthony let out a soft laugh. “That’s fine. I can afford it.” He brushed a stray lock of hair from her forehead, his gaze warm and gentle. “If money’s not enough, I can always offer myself, too.”

Charlotte couldn’t help but smile at that.

As they talked, a sudden knock came at the door. Laura’s shaky voice called out, “Echo, it’s me.”

Echo?

Anthony’s lips curled in amusement, one eyebrow raised. “Want me to leave?” he asked, but the way his hand tightened around her waist made it clear he had no intention of going anywhere.

Charlotte lifted her lashes and said softly, “I charge for people who listen to my lectures, too.”

The message was clear. If he stayed, he’d have to pay up.

Anthony gave a low chuckle and leaned in, his warm breath brushing her ear. “I’ll give you the password to my safe later.”

The password to his safe... Charlotte blinked, trying to imagine how much was inside. With Anthony’s status and wealth, it had to be more money than she could count on both hands.

He really was generous.

“I’ll head out to the balcony. You two talk,” Anthony said, finally letting her go. He stood and stepped outside.

Laura quickly pulled up a chair and focused on the music as Charlotte explained.

When ten minutes were up, Charlotte tapped her pen on the table. “Contact me through email from now on. I won’t see anyone except you, and I don’t want to be disturbed.”

“I understand, Echo,” Laura replied, her tone respectful. Before leaving, she glanced at Anthony out on the balcony, then whispered, “Echo, is that handsome guy your boyfriend?”

Boyfriend?

A smile tugged at Charlotte’s lips, the amusement reaching her eyes.

Back in the room, Anthony packed up Charlotte’s bag. When he finished zipping it, he noticed her still curled up on the sofa, blinking but otherwise motionless.

He smiled softly. “Kenneth is next door. Want to go see him?”