The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 450

"Who is that girl?" someone whispered, their voice thick with curiosity.

The girl's cap was pulled down so low it nearly hid her whole face, but you could still see the curve of her jaw, sharp and beautiful. It was obvious she was pretty. Still, looking at her clothes—plain, cheap, not a brand in sight—no one would ever guess she was part of high society.

"Did you see that? Anthony was the one who took her hand." Someone else, watching closely, sounded almost breathless. "Anthony, who’s managed to avoid women for nearly thirty years, is actually holding hands with someone."

"Could she be the one Patricia wants to introduce to everyone?" A woman in a black dress leaned in, covering her mouth. "If that’s true, then what about Melissa?"

Just five minutes ago, everyone thought Melissa was going to be Mrs. Blair.

The gossip around her felt like thunder, crashing over Melissa’s head. She just stood there, frozen, staring at Anthony and the girl, their hands linked, so close it made her blood run cold.

All these years, Anthony had never let another woman get near him. Why was there suddenly a girl by his side?

And what about her? What was she supposed to be to him?

Melissa forced herself to focus, sizing up the girl next to Anthony. Her gaze turned icy, green with jealousy.

That girl didn’t fit in here at all. She wasn’t from their world. Someone like her and Anthony—they were miles apart. How could they possibly be together? And the Blair family? With all their status, would they really accept someone so plain, dressed like she couldn’t even afford a nice dinner?

Impossible.

As these thoughts swirled through her mind, Melissa felt her fists unclench a little.

But then, out of nowhere, Patricia didn’t tell the girl to leave. Instead, the moment she saw her, Patricia jumped up from her seat, a huge smile breaking across her face. She hurried straight toward Charlotte.

"Lottie, you’re finally here! I missed you so much!"

Lottie was practically hidden under her clothes. No one would recognize her. Plus, Patricia clearly adored her. All their worries had been for nothing.

"Grandma," Charlotte said softly, stopping in front of Patricia.

Patricia’s face lit up even more. She reached out, patting Charlotte’s hand with affection. "I’m so glad you’re here."

"Grandma, I wish you health and happiness," Charlotte replied.

Anthony stepped forward, slipping his hand naturally around Charlotte’s waist, as if telling everyone she was his. "Lottie brought you a gift. I hope you’ll like it."

"Really?" Patricia’s eyes lit up even more. "Can I open it now?"

Just a few moments ago, she had refused the present Melissa gave her. Now, all her attention was on Lottie.