The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 895

“Mmm…” Charlotte let the sound linger as she slowly loosened her arms from Anthony’s waist. She tipped her head back, her wide eyes fixed on him, so serious it was almost funny.

“Don’t worry. Mr. Hawk didn’t touch me,” Anthony said with a small smile, picking up on her concern.

“Really?”

He nodded and reached out, gently smoothing her messy hair. His voice was soft, almost teasing. “Really.”

“Oh.” Charlotte glanced over at Franco, then back at Anthony, unable to hide her disappointment. Honestly, she’d kind of hoped her dad would rough him up a bit. Maybe then things wouldn’t feel so tense.

Charlotte stepped out of Anthony’s embrace and turned, just in time to catch her parents watching her with looks she couldn’t quite read.

“Lottie, come here.”

Compared to Franco’s bristling hostility, Nora’s voice sounded warm and inviting. She beckoned Charlotte over with a gentle wave.

Charlotte went to her mother without hesitation, Anthony trailing right behind.

“Mrs. Hawk, hi. I’m Anthony, Lottie’s boyfriend.”

“Hello.” Nora took Charlotte’s hand and studied Anthony closely. The last time they’d met, she’d been too upset to actually see him, everything just a blur. Now she really looked.

A slow, soft smile spread across Nora’s face. She looked genuinely pleased. Anthony and Lottie made a good-looking pair, and she could tell he cared about her daughter. Franco had mentioned how Anthony had charged into the presidential residence, ready to fight for Lottie, even if it meant putting his whole X Organization at risk. Not everyone would have that kind of nerve.

As long as he treated Lottie well and kept her safe, nothing else mattered to Nora.

“Someone bring a chair. Let's sit and talk,” Nora said, her gaze still locked on Anthony.

Nora didn’t answer. She just stared at him, her eyes quietly disappointed.

Franco noticed the shift in her mood right away. He looked down and said, a little softer, “Alright, I’ll go.”

“Ask Lottie and Anthony what they like. Have them make extra,” Nora added.

“…Got it.” His response was clipped, teeth almost clenched.

Before he left, Franco leaned down, gently tucking a loose strand of hair from Nora’s forehead. “I’ll be back soon,” he murmured. “Call me if you need anything, okay?”

“Mmm.” Nora nodded slightly, her eyes following Franco as he walked away. Her expression grew distant, lost in thought.

Charlotte caught the look. It was obvious her dad adored her mom. But every time her mom looked at him, there was a hint of sadness, as if she was worried about something she didn’t dare say out loud.