The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1696

Just as Anthony was about to take things a little further, a loud camera shutter snapped through the night. He froze, arms suddenly empty before he could even process what just happened.

“Get in the car.”

Charlotte hopped off the hood, raising her eyebrows, a sly little smile tugging at her lips. “I’ll give you another treat when we get home.”

Another treat?

Those words sent a shock straight through Anthony. His throat bobbed, and he felt his body tense all over. Did she forget she was pregnant? How could she tease him like this? He couldn't decide who was pushing their luck more, her or him.

Ignoring the obvious stares from people around them, Anthony headed straight for the car, eyes fixed on Charlotte.

“Lottie…”

“Yeah?” She was busy doing something on her phone, not even glancing his way, voice cool and distant. “What’s up?”

No warmth in her face, no warmth in her tone. Totally distant. Totally Charlotte.

Was all that just for fun? Did she mean any of it, or was she just messing with him? Anthony felt a little hurt, leaning closer, wanting to speak.

“If there’s nothing, just drive,” Charlotte said, finally looking up at him, her face blank, like she’d forgotten about her earlier promise.

Anthony pressed his lips together, annoyed and frustrated, his body tight with impatience. “You…”

“If you don’t need me, then just drive.” Her head dipped back to her phone, her voice deeper now, even less interested than before.

Anthony’s smile froze. He gripped the steering wheel, face darker than before. He didn’t say a word. He didn’t start the car either. He just sat there, stewing in silence.

When ten minutes finally passed, Anthony tugged off his tie and started popping open his shirt buttons. He was just about to go upstairs when Helen’s voice called out, “Anthony, Charlotte…”

As soon as he heard Charlotte’s name, Anthony jumped up, worried. He rushed over to Helen, face serious. “What’s going on?”

Helen just grinned and handed over her phone.

On the screen, Anthony saw Charlotte’s brand new Twitter account, already sporting its very first post.

Text: “Under the streetlamp there are two shadows. One is mine, and the other is mine, too.”

Accompanied by two photos. One was a clear shot of the two of them sharing a kiss. The other, their shadows under the light.

Both pictures were clear as day. Especially Anthony’s face—good lighting, crisp details, nothing out of place. He looked great. No one would ever guess he was supposed to be an “old man.”