The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1723

The Blair Estate.

The main hall had an old-world charm, all elegant woodwork and warm lighting. Around the big round table, family members filled almost every seat. Patricia sat at the head, calm and serious, while the families of Matthew and Daniel took their places on either side.

“Lottie and Anthony’s wedding is almost here,” Patricia said, putting down her utensils and looking at everyone with her usual authority. “I need you two to stay on top of every single detail. There can’t be any slip-ups.”

The Gates family and the Blair family were both big names in Cabinda. Everyone already knew this wedding would be the talk of the town.

Lavinia smiled as she glanced at Charlotte, who was quietly eating beside her. “Don’t worry, most of the arrangements are done. The dress arrived today, too. Lottie, you should try it on again later. If anything’s not right, we can have it altered.”

“Okay.” Charlotte looked up and gave a polite nod. “Thanks for your hard work.”

Lavinia shook her head quickly, all smiles. “Not at all, really. I’m happy to help, even if it’s exhausting.”

Suddenly, she remembered something. “Have you picked your bridesmaids yet?”

“Bridesmaids?” Charlotte paused for a moment, then answered softly, “Probably Stella and Shirley.”

She never had that many friends. It just felt weird having anyone she wasn’t close to stand up there with her.

Patricia nodded along. “That sounds just fine.” Her eyes drifted over to Andrew, who hadn't said a word and was still staring at his phone. Patricia sighed and frowned.

“Andrew, did you hear what Charlotte just said?” she asked, a little gentler now.

Andrew lifted his head, frowning himself. “I heard, Grandma. Actually, I’ve been trying to reach Shirley, but I can’t get through.”

Charlotte’s fingers tightened around her phone. She glanced out the window, watching the rain come down in sheets. The city outside looked like it was melting into the storm, gray and unfocused.

“Not yet…” Geneva looked at the clock, worry creeping into her voice. “She’s always got her nose in a book somewhere. She comes home late a lot.” There was a pause, then, “Charlotte, are you calling because something’s happened to Shirley?”

Charlotte kept her tone calm and steady. “It’s nothing, Grandma. Don’t worry, Shirley will be home soon.”

She ended the call before Geneva could ask more questions, then tried Shirley’s number.

No luck. Only a message telling her the phone was off.

Mr. Lane said Shirley left about an hour ago. Rain or not, she should have made it home by now. Shirley wasn’t the type to wander. If she still wasn’t home, something was definitely wrong.

Charlotte stood and addressed the table, her voice quietly urgent, “Grandma, Daniel, Dorothy… I need to take care of something. Please excuse me.”