The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 716

"But..."

Hans hesitated, but he just couldn't hold it in. He nervously reminded, "Charlotte told you to keep an eye on the B20 research. If you suddenly run off, she might get upset, you know?"

Anthony leaned back against the headboard, his eyes landing on a photo of Charlotte on the nightstand. His usually calm face tightened with irritation.

Did Hans really think he didn't know what was going on in Charlotte's mind?

On the surface, she wanted him to keep tabs on the B20 project. The truth was, she didn't want him anywhere near Solenia. She was worried the N Organization would come after him.

"So, you think I'm afraid of Lottie?"

Hans pressed his lips together, silent. His expression said it all. Wasn't he?

The room fell into a heavy silence.

After a few tense seconds, Anthony cleared his throat and looked away, acting like he couldn't care less. "Just book the ticket. Stop making a big deal out of it."

He had his own ways of making sure Charlotte wouldn't be mad.

***

The next day arrived.

The first round of eliminations for the International Medical Competition kicked off at the Solenia International Conference Center. Some of the brightest medical minds from around the world had gathered here.

Even before things started, the tension in the air was intense. Contestants clung to their books and equipment, trying to cram in every last bit of practice while they still could.

Letty finished checking over her instruments, then glanced across the aisle at Charlotte.

Charlotte sat in her chair, leaning against the wall, her long legs crossed at the ankle. She was totally absorbed in her phone, fingers flying across the screen.

She didn't look like she was reviewing notes. It honestly looked like she was just playing around.

Letty stared for a second, then a smirk tugged at her lips.

She couldn't accept someone like Charlotte standing on the same stage as her own student.

"I'm not sure," another judge replied, his mouth curling into a faint, chilly smile. He looked at Charlotte with a hint of bitterness. "As long as she's got the skill and didn't pull any strings, I've got nothing to say."

Otherwise, this rare chance would have gone to someone from his country, not just some nobody.

Anyone would feel a little bitter about that.

...

After a quick ten-minute break, the competition officially began.

There were twenty contestants.

The first round was a test of basic theory. Only fifteen would move on.