The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 830

Back then, the chaos on the Isle of Veil sent ripples across the world. The Isle of Veil was a lot like Solenia, both places running their own show when it came to politics, money, and culture. The real difference was reputation. The Isle of Veil had a spotless name, known everywhere as a financial center that stood apart from the rest of the continents. Solenia kept up in terms of growth, but it had turned into a playground for all sorts of powerful groups. One was clean, the other was messy. They couldn’t have been more different.

As for his wife... the background check turned up the same results Lottie had already found.

“Anthony, Franco is still digging into us,” Hans said, respectful as always. “Not sure if he’s after Charlotte or the formula.”

Anthony’s brow furrowed. If Franco really wanted the formula, he wouldn’t have let Lottie walk away with it. And during that mess earlier, Franco’s people didn't even look like they wanted to fight.

Anthony flipped through the files, leaned back in his chair, and rubbed his eyes, his gaze growing cold. “Did you send the meeting request to Franco?”

“Yeah, and he already replied.” Hans nodded and handed over the response from the presidential office.

“Bring extra people tomorrow. And…” Anthony paused, thinking, then dropped his voice. “Get Lottie a lightweight handgun. Make sure she keeps it on her.”

“Anthony, you think Franco might go after Charlotte?” Hans looked confused.

“Just being careful.” Anthony snapped the file shut and stood up. “Franco doesn’t seem like a good guy.”

At the auction, Franco couldn’t take his eyes off Lottie. Anthony would lose it if Franco ever made a move on her. He’d make sure Franco regretted it.

…

The next morning

Charlotte got up, washed her face, and stood in front of her closet, arms crossed, trying to pick something to wear. She caught sight of the marks on her neck in the mirror, and the longer she stared, the angrier she got. Not a single high-necked top. Nothing would cover it.

“Lottie…”

Charlotte leaned into Anthony, curiously turning over the new handgun in her hands. It was sleek, light, and fit perfectly in her grip. It looked like it was made for her.

“We’re almost at the president’s residence.”

The words made her pause. She glanced out the window at the massive, grand old castle up ahead. The word “Hawk” was etched in bold letters across the iron gate.

She remembered the way Franco had looked at her at the auction, how everything had unfolded after. Charlotte frowned. She was sure she’d never met the man before, never even spoken to him.

“Charlotte, Anthony, we’re here.”

When she snapped out of it, the car was already parked in front of the presidential gates. Hans stepped out and showed Franco’s invitation, complete with his personal signature. The armed guards moved aside, and the gates slowly swung open.