The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 272

“Wow,” Nancy said, practically bursting with envy. “Olivia, you have no idea how lucky you are. Joe invited you himself. Who knows, he might even buy you a ring or a necklace or something tonight.”

Olivia just smiled but didn’t say anything. The Gill family had money, sure, but they weren’t the kind of rich that could casually throw away tens of millions on some auction trinket. The truth was, she’d only agreed to Joe’s invitation because she wanted that ticket. Once she got inside, she’d be surrounded by some of the world’s richest, most powerful people. If she played her cards right and made the right connections, tonight could change everything for her.

The Top of the World auction was buzzing with excitement. Everywhere Olivia looked, there were glamorous guests—famous faces, powerful CEOs, old-money socialites. The atmosphere practically hummed with energy.

A sleek sports car rolled up to the entrance but didn’t open right away. Inside, Anthony was busy putting a hat and a mask on Charlotte. “There are all kinds of people out there,” he murmured, adjusting the mask gently over her face. “If they see me bringing you in, things could get complicated.”

Charlotte’s eyes were calm and clear as she let him fuss over her. “Is it really that dangerous?” she asked softly.

Anthony nodded, brushing a stray bit of hair from her forehead before settling the hat into place. With most of her face hidden, she looked almost anonymous. “I’ve never brought a woman to an event like this before. People will notice. There’ll be a scene.” He squeezed her hand, his voice gentle. “But you don’t need to worry. I’m here with you. I won’t let anything happen.”

Charlotte just gave him a bland little “Okay.” She wasn’t really concerned about herself. If anyone was in danger tonight, it probably wasn’t her.

Anthony led her through the VIP entrance, hand in hand. Outside, a crowd of reporters had gathered, cameras flashing like crazy. The second they spotted Anthony with a young woman beside him, everyone perked up.

“Am I dreaming? Did Anthony Blair actually bring a woman to an event?”

Charlotte blinked up at him, all fake innocence, and poked his chest. “I was just curious.”

He caught her hand, holding it still, and whispered, “Let’s go inside first. I need to hit the restroom. I’ll be back in a minute.”

She watched him go, lips curling into a quiet smile. Men who’d never dated before really were easy to tease.

Charlotte kept moving, turning the corner just as a tall figure stepped into her path. He moved so suddenly and quietly, she almost didn’t notice him until they collided—he carried the faint, clinical scent of disinfectant.