The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1819

“Allanson, are you alright?”

The butler sounded genuinely worried, catching Allanson watching Charlotte and Anthony with that distant, sad look in his eyes. “You waited every day for Charlotte to come home. Now she’s back, but you don’t seem...”

“I’m just… happy.”

Allanson’s voice was soft. His old eyes had a faraway shine, and a faint smile lifted his lips. He let out a sigh. “Seeing her in person… it makes me happy.”

The butler didn’t quite get it, but he held onto Allanson’s arm, steadying him as they walked down the steps together.

Allanson paused. He wouldn’t meet Charlotte’s eyes and looked strangely flustered.

“You must be tired,” he said awkwardly. “Come inside. Rest a while?”

Charlotte swept her cool gaze over him. Her voice was even, almost chilly. “No need.”

Jackson was already a step ahead, handing the box they’d brought to Allanson’s butler.

“This is from Robert. He asked Charlotte and Anthony to deliver it.”

Allanson glanced at the box. Something about it tickled the back of his mind, but he couldn’t quite remember why it looked so familiar.

“Let’s go,” Charlotte said, squeezing Anthony’s hand gently.

Anthony nodded. He shot Allanson a look—polite but steady. “Take care.”

“Wait.”

Allanson’s voice broke a little. He hurried after them, breathless.

“Charlotte, just a second.”

She stopped and turned.

“All that time cleaning up the lab, I found so many of your grandmother’s things. Would you come inside and have a look? You can take what you want home.”

“Try this,” Allanson said, nudging a plate toward her. “Your grandmother loved this dessert when she was young.” His every move was cautious, his words careful.

Anthony took a spoon, scooped up some of the dessert and offered it to Charlotte. “It has strawberry jam, your favorite. Looks pretty good, don’t you think?” he said, a gentle smile in his voice.

Charlotte watched him for a moment, then glanced at Allanson’s hopeful face. She finally took a bite.

Allanson let out the breath he’d been holding. His faint smile grew much warmer.

“All right, bring out the rest,” he said quietly.

The butler hurried off and returned with another box, setting it down at Charlotte’s side before stepping back.

“These belonged to your grandmother,” he said simply.

Charlotte looked at the box. She didn’t open it. Not yet.

A moment later, Allanson spoke again, voice softer than ever. “The lab just sent word. The antidote’s ready now.” He seemed content, seeing her hold the box. “Go on, then. You don’t want to miss your checkup.”