The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 588

Two hours later, a black sports car glided into The Blair Estate. The guards at the gate bowed their heads as it passed.

The car eased to a stop, and the door swung open. Anthony stepped out first, his navy suit sharp and perfectly fitted, every inch of him commanding attention. His face was striking, not a single flaw in sight.

“Anthony.” The guards greeted him with respect.

He nodded at them, then leaned back into the car. The chill in his eyes faded away as he looked inside, replaced by a warmth only she ever saw.

“We’re here,” he said softly.

He reached in, gently smoothed her hair, then took her hand and led her toward the main hall.

They’d barely made it inside when Lavinia, all bright smiles, hurried over. She brushed right past Matthew, who trailed behind her, and wrapped Charlotte in a quick hug. “Lottie, you made it!”

“Lavinia.” Charlotte nodded politely, trying to pull her hand free from Anthony’s grip, but he only held on tighter.

Lavinia caught the look and raised an eyebrow. “Relax, Anthony. I’m not going to steal her.”

He grinned, not the least bit embarrassed. “What can I say? I’ve only got one girlfriend. I don’t want to lose her.” At last, he let go. “I’m going to change. I’ll be back soon.”

His mother could talk for hours. Only his dad seemed able to handle it.

Charlotte smiled and nodded, feeling more comfortable with Lavinia already.

“Come on, your grandmother’s waiting in the side room,” Lavinia said, her smile lighting up the room. She linked arms with Charlotte and walked with her, giving her a quick once-over. “You look so much thinner. Has Anthony not been taking care of you?”

“This is from your grandmother and me. You have to take it,” Lavinia said, placing the box in Charlotte’s hands with a loving look.

Charlotte glanced down. Inside was a huge, flawless emerald, set in platinum and surrounded by diamonds. It was the kind of necklace you couldn’t buy, no matter how much money you had.

They were really giving this to her?

“Lavinia, this is too much. I can’t accept it…”

“Only the best for you,” Patricia said, patting her hand, her affection clear. “Go on, take it. I wouldn’t give it to anyone else.”

“Exactly,” Lavinia agreed. She paused, then added in a gentler voice, “Lottie, I know Anthony’s a little older than the guys at your university. But he’s easy on the eyes, and honestly, he’s got a pretty good temperament. So…”