The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 447

Charlotte answered with a steady, sincere look in her eyes.

A friend?

Sensing the jealousy flickering across Anthony’s face, Charlotte straightened up, gave his fingers a gentle squeeze, then leaned up on her toes to whisper softly, “She’s a girl.”

That seemed to ease Anthony’s mood. His expression softened.

Charlotte added, “She’s like a sister to me. Back in Lamplighter Village, we only had each other.”

Anthony knew a bit about Lamplighter Village. He’d heard the stories. Out of all the kids in that old sanatorium, only two had survived. One was Charlotte, and the other could only be the friend she just mentioned.

“Okay.” Anthony didn’t ask any more questions. He reached out and ran his hand through Charlotte’s hair, his tone gentle and full of care. “You look out for her. I’ll look out for you.”

Those simple words sent a wave of warmth through Charlotte’s heart.

She stared at him for a few long seconds, then, on impulse, caught his chin and pressed a quick kiss to the corner of his mouth. “Thank you for taking care of me, darling.”

…

The birthday banquet was in full swing, the whole hall buzzing with laughter and conversation.

Nearby, a table was stacked high with gifts for Patricia, each one wrapped in bright, cheerful colors.

Patricia sat in her chair, glancing anxiously toward the entrance. Her brow was furrowed with worry. “Anne, when is Lottie getting here?”

“She’ll be here any minute,” Anne replied, her smile tinged with exasperation. Patricia had already asked five times. She was clearly getting restless.

“This is taking forever. Maybe I should go check…”

Patricia was about to get up when, suddenly, a pretty girl in a perfectly styled dress appeared in front of her, smiling brightly. “Patricia, it’s been ages. Wishing you good health.”

Patricia looked her up and down, frowning a little.

She recognized her right away. Melissa Carter.

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