The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1650

Andrew barely had a chance to react when she suddenly said, “We can only be friends.”

Did his confession just get shot down before it even started? His face darkened, but he kept quiet and waited for her to go on.

“I don’t like you.” The words felt like lead in Shirley’s chest, but she managed to keep her expression calm. “I really value our friendship. I don’t want us to mess that up. That’s why I’ve been avoiding you lately.”

Her hands were clenched on her lap as she looked up and met his eyes. “Friends, yes. Anything else… just isn’t possible.”

Andrew didn’t move or say a word for a long moment.

Finally, he raised his head and looked at her, his whole demeanor serious. “Is it because you hate me?”

Shirley blinked, a little thrown. “No…”

“Do you think I’m ugly? Or that something’s wrong with me?” he asked.

“No,” she replied instantly.

She needed to turn him down, but it felt wrong to do it by running him down. He deserved more respect. He was genuinely a good guy. Even her grandmother never stopped talking about him.

Andrew was quiet for a second, still serious. “So is it because you like someone else at The Cabinda University?”

Shirley’s eyes went wide with surprise and uncertainty. She almost looked lost.

“Oh.” Andrew’s mouth curved into a smile.

That reaction said a lot more than words ever could.

“What?” Shirley blinked, totally thrown. “I told you, I don’t like you—”

“I didn’t expect you to say yes when I confessed.” Andrew slung her bag over his shoulder, one hand in his pocket, a half-teasing smile on his lips. “I just wanted you to know how I feel. This isn’t pity or a joke. I genuinely like you. I want to be with you.”

Hearing those words, Shirley felt something stir inside her. Her eyes started to sting.

“It’s okay if you don’t like me yet…”

Andrew leaned a little closer until they were practically eye-to-eye. His voice was gentle but sure, and his warm breath tickled her skin. “As long as you end up liking me in the future.”

“You…” Shirley had never been in a situation like this before. Startled, she grabbed her bag and bolted.

“Shirley.” Andrew stood where he was, raising his voice just enough so she could hear. “I’m going to do everything I can to make you fall for me!”