The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 561

Charlotte set the old tie aside and picked up a new one, looping it around Anthony’s neck. The deep blue looked a little strange with his black shirt. She frowned, studying him for a moment before her lips curled up. “This doesn’t go together.”

“Hm?” Anthony looked down at her. He caught her frown and let out a quiet laugh. “What’s wrong with it?”

She didn’t answer, just pressed her lips together. Her fingers slid down from the tie to his shirt buttons. Calm and steady, she started to undo them, one after the other.

“Lottie, what are you doing?” he asked.

By the third button, Anthony finally snapped out of it. He caught her hand, his eyes taking on a deeper, reddish tint. “Are you trying to take advantage of me?”

She paused, her fingertips resting on his chest. “And if I am, would you let me?”

For a second, neither of them moved. Then Charlotte let go and reached for another shirt, one that actually matched the tie. She slid it onto his shoulders and nodded, satisfied.

Much better. Now he looked sharp.

“What did you say?” Anthony’s gaze narrowed, his expression complicated. He stared at her, voice low and rough. “I didn’t catch that.”

Charlotte just smiled a little, not answering. Instead, she opened a drawer and pulled out a third box.

Inside was a silver watch, elegant and simple. It was the kind of thing you’d want to wear every day.

A third gift? Anthony felt completely off balance. He swallowed and asked quietly, “This is for me too?”

She nodded, her smile still there. “I picked it out just for you.”

She dangled the watch from her finger, her eyes sparkling. “Give me your hand.”

He lifted his hand, dazed. Watching her fasten the watch around his wrist, Anthony caught the glint of light bouncing off the metal.

He grinned, happy. “Is there more?”

“But mine are even better, because all I see in them is you.”

Charlotte’s lips curved into a slow smile, her gaze taking on a new warmth.

“Are you happy now?” Anthony tapped her nose, grinning down at her.

“A little.”

She leaned in, her pretty face just inches from his, and stared at him for a few seconds before moving even closer.

Usually, Charlotte’s kisses were quick and teasing. Tonight, though, she didn’t stop. The kiss deepened, lingering.

“Lottie…” Anthony’s brow knit together. He put his hands on her shoulders, leaning back a little, his eyes dark and intense. “What’s going on with you?”