The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1619

The next morning, sunlight warmed the big bedroom at Imperial Heights as it slipped through the light curtains. Charlotte stirred beneath the covers, stretching lazily before opening her eyes. The room was quiet and empty.

She frowned, still somewhere between her dream and waking, until the door swung open and Anthony walked in balancing a steaming tray.

“Hey, you’re awake?” His voice was gentle and teasing.

Charlotte gave him a sleepy look, her gaze flickering to his face. For a second, she worried, then noticed the mark from last night was gone. Relief washed over her.

“What are you staring at?” Anthony grinned, setting the tray on the bedside table. He pulled back the covers and leaned in, his face inches from hers, smile dancing at the edge of his mouth. “Feeling better?”

Charlotte offered him a quick kiss on the corner of his lips. “Yeah, actually. I’m pretty happy.”

Anthony’s low laugh rumbled out as his thumb brushed her cheek. His voice softened more. “Come on, let’s get you freshened up and fed. I’ll drive you to class after.”

“Okay.” She didn’t move, just kept looking at him, her expression lazy and soft.

“I’ll carry you.” Anthony smiled, scooping her into his arms without waiting for her to protest. He helped her through her morning routine and settled her back with breakfast.

Charlotte tasted a spoonful, glancing up curiously. “You made the oatmeal?”

“Yeah,” Anthony answered, using a napkin to wipe her mouth. His tone was light. “Not to your taste?”

“Morning.” Charlotte gave Anthony a quick look, then slipped over to Helen’s side, lowering her voice. “Helen, maybe hide the oatmeal pots for a while, alright?”

Helen blinked at her, caught off guard. “Why’s that?”

Charlotte smiled into her cup as she sipped some milk, her eyes crinkling with amusement. “The little ones aren’t exactly fans of his cooking.”

Helen tried to hold back a laugh, but after a second, she lost the battle and giggled behind her hand.

Later, in front of Kingswood University, Charlotte grabbed her bag and reached for the door, ready to get out. Suddenly, Anthony’s hand closed gently around her wrist, his eyes full of something warm and protective as he watched her.