The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1797

“Are you asking for my input?”

Anthony put down his fork and leaned back, his gaze locked on Charlotte. His throat felt tight.

“Yes.”

Charlotte didn’t hesitate, her voice calm and steady as she lifted her chin.

“I looked into the Apex situation last night. It’s dangerous.” Anthony’s brow was drawn, his normally sharp features a shade paler than usual. “You’re pregnant, Lottie. Your immunity isn’t strong right now.”

“I know.”

Charlotte answered softly. She’d tried to keep her voice gentle, not wanting this to turn into an argument. “I’ve done everything I can think of these past few days. I still can’t find the cause of the outbreak.”

“Anthony, I’m a doctor. The first thing I learned in med school was that lives depend on us. I can’t just look the other way. If I don’t do something, this will only spread. More people will die.”

Her eyes flicked down, lingering on her belly for the briefest moment. Her voice dropped to a whisper. “And a lot of kids will lose their parents.”

“So…”

“Lottie.”

Anthony moved his chair back. He looked at her, an intensity in his eyes that was impossible to ignore. “Come here.”

Charlotte hesitated, not sure what he wanted, but walked over without a word.

Anthony took her hand, guiding her gently onto his lap, his arms circling her waist. His voice, when it came, was quiet but rough with emotion. “What if I say no? What if I don’t let you go to Apex?”

“You’ll say yes.”

Her face stayed calm, her answer full of certainty. “Won’t you?”

“Why do you think that?”

There was nothing he could say to change her mind. He was quiet for a long time, then finally spoke, his voice rough at the edges. “When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow morning.” Her answer was soft but unwavering. “Apex’s hospital is short on supplies. I want to bring equipment and medication with me.”

“It’s already done.”

As Anthony spoke, Hans walked in, carrying a folder. He laid it open before Charlotte. “Anthony had us put this together last night, Charlotte. Take a look. If there’s anything missing, we’ll add it.”

Anthony really had thought of everything.

Charlotte scanned the list, her heart softening even more as she looked at him.

So he knew. Last night, he’d already guessed she’d insist on going. He didn’t try to talk her out of it. Instead, he’d made sure she’d have everything she could possibly need.

Anthony brushed a strand of hair away from her face, his smile small but sincere. “I told you. I’ll back you up, no matter what you decide. That’s never going to change. I just need you to promise me one thing.”