The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1437

What was with that look? Had she done something to upset him?

Emily frowned as she noticed Kenneth’s icy stare. She couldn’t figure out what was going through his mind before his lips curled into a smirk, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Speaking of picking up the bill, that reminds me. Emily, didn’t you promise me a dinner, too?”

Emily’s whole body tensed. She looked at Kenneth, remembering little fragments. Oh, right. He had helped her out with the Storm project, and she’d promised to buy him dinner. But life got messy, one thing after another piled up, and she’d started avoiding him on purpose—so dinner never happened.

She hadn’t thought he’d remember.

“I have to wonder, Emily, just how many people have you promised dinner? Must’ve been a lot if you can’t keep track anymore.” Kenneth grabbed his water and took a big gulp, like he was trying to swallow his frustration. “Come on, tell me.”

“I…” Caught off guard, Emily didn’t know what to say. Her cheeks warmed as she stared at Kenneth, confused. It was just a meal. Why bring it up now?

The awkwardness in the room grew. Jarrod glanced between them, puzzled for a second, then quickly replaced it with a friendly smile. “Emily probably just got busy and forgot,” he said. “I’ve known her a long time. She’s not the kind of person to go back on her word.”

Kenneth’s lips twitched into a cold grin as he watched Jarrod do his best to win Emily’s favor. “So what, you think I’m just giving her a hard time?”

“Not at all.” Jarrod kept his gentle tone. “I just think Emily’s a good person. She shouldn’t be misunderstood.” He turned to Emily, sincerity all over his face. “Emily, you know what I mean, right?”

“See you tomorrow.” Emily nodded, packing her things into her bag. As she reached for it, Jarrod moved faster and grabbed it first, smiling from ear to ear. “Let me carry this for you.”

“That’s okay.” Emily was still getting used to Jarrod’s over-the-top friendliness. “I can manage.”

“Think of it like we’re still acting.” Jarrod swung the bag over his shoulder and drooped his head, kind of like an adorable puppy. “Unless… you’re still upset with me about that dinner thing?”

“No,” Emily said, not quite able to refuse him. She hesitated, then gave in. “Alright. Thanks.”

“No need to thank me.” Jarrod followed along behind her, ducking his tall frame so they were nearly at eye level, his tone gentle and patient. “I just like being around you.”