The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 915

Was Anthony looking up information about genetic mutations?

She found out her genes were different from everyone else’s when she was sixteen. Newell had done some tests and told her she had a rare gift. He’d said, “Your brain works pretty well. You’re good enough to be my student.”

Anthony heard a sound and closed his browser, smooth as ever. He pushed his chair back, his posture lazy and relaxed. His eyes were deep and dark, almost pitch black, and a crooked smile tugged at his lips. “Lottie, come here.”

Charlotte pretended not to notice his little move and wandered over, taking her time.

“Sit here.”

Anthony slid his arm around her waist and pulled her down onto his lap, resting his chin on her shoulder. His lips brushed her neck, warm and lingering, sometimes on purpose, sometimes not. He didn’t say anything.

He was being clingy today.

“Do you want to talk about something?” she asked, letting him hold her. Her fingers hung loose over his shoulder. Her eyes, soft and almond-shaped, were half closed.

“You’re going to the institute tomorrow morning?” she murmured.

“Yeah.” Charlotte shifted a little in his arms, getting comfortable.

“Dr. David called while you were sleeping. I picked up.”

“Oh.” Charlotte swung her long legs and started playing with the belt on his robe, her voice casual.

“Dr. David said your mom’s test results are ready.” Anthony caught her restless hand, holding it steady as he locked eyes with her. His voice dropped, serious. “Lottie, does your family have a history of genetic disorders?”

Charlotte’s lashes fluttered up. She’d thought he’d keep it from her until he was sure. She hadn’t expected him to be this direct.

“Grandpa’s and Kevin’s hair samples are already at the lab. We’ll get the results tomorrow.” She stared at him, voice low. “What are you worried about?”

“I’m worried your mom’s illness is related to her genes,” Anthony said quietly.

“That’s not what I meant.” Charlotte pressed a hand to his chest, trying to keep her cool even though her heart was pounding.

“I know.” Anthony caught her hands, laced their fingers together, and pinned them above her head. His breath was warm against her skin.

It tickled, making her thoughts scatter.

Know what?

Before she could figure it out, Anthony’s voice came again, right by her ear.

“You might not have meant it that way, but I do…”

His words faded into a kiss, soft and sudden on her lips, then heat and damp trailing along her neck.