The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1775

“So what if I was? You started chasing me first, remember?”

Charlotte slid the ring onto Anthony’s finger. She caught the playful look in his eyes and felt her face warm up. She tried to act cool, but couldn’t keep the hint of shyness out of her voice. “What are you smiling at?”

Anthony’s grin only got softer, full of the kind of affection that made her heart race.

“Give me back that ring!” she huffed, faking a frown as if she was about to pull it right off his hand.

But before she could do anything, Anthony gently cupped her face in his hands and kissed her, soft and sincere. He looked into her eyes and whispered, “Whether I planned it or not, whether I schemed or not… it doesn’t matter. The truth is, you’re the only one I’ll ever want in this life. Lottie, I love you.”

“The groom may now kiss—”

Robert had just finished wiping tears from his face, ready to move on with the ceremony, when he saw the two of them lost in a kiss. He burst into half a laugh, half a sigh. Young people were always in such a rush.

Petals rained down all around them. The cheers and applause filled the air, carrying every bit of their happiness farther into the world.

Not far away, Allanson stood in the corner in his tailored suit. He watched the couple on stage, tired eyes full of emotion. Tears threatened to spill over as he took it all in.

“Mr. Allanson, are you sure you don’t want to go inside and watch?” the butler asked gently, worry in his voice. After all, Charlotte was his own granddaughter.

“No need,” Allanson said with a weak shake of his hand. His sigh was full of regret. “This is her big day. I don’t want to make things awkward.”

The butler hesitated, about to say more, but someone behind them spoke up. Franco’s voice sounded calm but sharp. “You’re really not hiding out here, you know. Lottie’s sharp enough to notice every guest here.”

“I’ve given my gift and toasted the couple. That’s enough for me,” Allanson said, sounding content as he let out a long breath. “Time to go.”

He nodded at the butler, who immediately moved to his side to help him out.

As they reached the entrance, they saw two motorcycles parked out front—clearly sent to escort them.

“Mr. Allanson, there’s a city-wide traffic restriction today,” the butler explained softly. “Anthony sent those men to lead us to the airport.”

Allanson stood quietly, eyes on the motorcycles. Then he turned to glance back at the hotel, gaze landing on the big cutout of the newlyweds at the door. A small, peaceful smile touched his lips.