The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 78

Charlotte looked nervous, like she knew she’d been sleepwalking again and didn’t want anyone to find out. Anthony thought about saying something, but let it go. She deserved a little privacy.

After breakfast, Anthony set a deep blue box by Charlotte’s side.

“Go on, open it.”

She looked puzzled, but lifted the lid. Inside was a brand-new white phone and a matching iPad.

“This is your reward for being so brave,” Anthony said, his voice soft with affection. He glanced at Helen. “Bring Ms. Main’s bag over.”

Helen brought her a new backpack, one that looked almost exactly like the old one.

Charlotte held the phone, her eyes shining as she looked at Anthony. For a second, she forgot how to speak.

Anthony picked up her bag, a women’s trench coat draped over his arm. He raised an eyebrow and smiled. “If you keep staring at me like that, you’re going to be late.”

The maids nearby tried to hold back their laughter, but their faces turned pink.

Charlotte blinked, finally looking away. She was just about to stand up when Anthony grabbed her wrist, his touch gentle. “Come on. I’ll walk you to class.”

His eyes were dark and playful, like he was up to no good. The kind of look that made your heart skip.

Charlotte glanced at his hand around hers. She didn’t pull away. It felt so natural, like she’d always let him lead her.

They walked out together, side by side.

As they stepped into the garden, they heard excited barking from not far away.

“Woof, woof, woof!”

Anthony’s giant white dog, 98K, was bouncing around, desperate for Charlotte’s attention.

“Awooo!” (Look at me!)

Charlotte stopped and looked over. From where she stood, all she could see was a giant ball of fluff jumping up and down. She couldn’t even see his face.

“98K, come here!”

The moment Anthony called, 98K bit off his leash and charged toward Charlotte.

“Awooo!” (Here I come!)

Charlotte dropped her gaze, reached out, and poked him on the head with one finger. “Lie down.”

98K flopped to the ground, head resting on her shoes, tongue lolling.

“Shake.”

He stuck out his left paw, placing it carefully in her hand.

“Wrong one, the other.”

He quickly switched to his right paw.

Not bad, she thought. He’s smarter than he looks.

Charlotte smiled, crouched down, and cupped 98K’s head in both hands, rubbing his soft white fur.

Anthony watched her, frowning. “Charlotte, he hasn’t had a bath in forever. He’s filthy.”

98K looked wounded. He’d just had a bath last night. He was spotless and smelled amazing.