The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1142

“Don’t talk nonsense.”

Hamlin hurried forward, trying to stop her. In his rush, his knees gave out, and he almost hit the ground.

“Dad!” Morton’s voice rang out.

Charlotte and Anthony both reached out to help without even thinking.

But before they could, Morton—who wasn’t even six yet—darted ahead. He caught Hamlin just in time and helped him steady himself.

Charlotte and Anthony shared a glance. They didn’t have to say it out loud. Morton was a smart kid, quick on his feet. With the right support, he’d go far someday.

“We’ve got nowhere left to turn, and you’re still trying to hide it from us.” Zoe’s voice broke as she grabbed Charlotte’s hand. Tears streaked her face. “Morton’s dad is really sick. We’ve spent every last penny. We even sold the house. Coming to the city wasn’t about Morton’s schooling. We came to save him.”

“Let’s go.” Hamlin took Zoe’s hand, his face pale. “It’s not that bad. You don’t need to worry.”

Charlotte got it. They were out of money for treatment, but Hamlin just didn’t want to ask for help.

“Wait.” Charlotte stopped them and stepped closer. She gently pressed two fingers to Hamlin’s wrist and took his pulse.

After a moment, she let go.

“Lung cancer?”

Hamlin nodded, looking embarrassed. “Yeah. It’s not something that gets better overnight. I don’t want to waste money we don’t have.” He glanced at Morton, worry written all over his face.

“It’s treatable.” Charlotte pulled her hand back. Just as she reached for her phone, Anthony spoke up. “It’s already taken care of. The hospital’s sending someone soon.”

“Let the doctors handle it. I’ll take care of the surgery and all the costs.”

“But—”

“Just do what I say.” Charlotte cut him off, her voice steady. “Trust me, I can handle this.”

Anthony gave a quiet laugh and kissed her cheek. “It’s getting windy. Let’s head back.”

“Yeah.” Charlotte nodded. They still needed to talk about their trip to the Isle of Veil.

***

Not far away, a man sat in a car, keeping an eye on Charlotte from a distance. He watched everything unfold.

So they’d come to Cabinda. No wonder they’d been so hard to find.

After Anthony’s convoy pulled away, the man straightened up and grabbed his phone.

“Aloys, I found them. We’re ready to move whenever you give the word.”

If they couldn’t get to Charlotte’s family, these people would do just fine.