The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 1360

Kenneth knew Emily all too well. Most days, they could barely stand each other, never missing a chance to trade snarky remarks. So when he saw her message pop up on his phone—just three little words, You looked great—his heart gave a wild, unexpected jolt. Heat shot straight to his cheeks. The feeling caught him so off guard it was almost embarrassing.

He stared at his phone, completely thrown off by her compliment.

“Kenneth, what’s up?” His manager’s voice broke through his daze, concern flickering across his face.

“It’s nothing.” Kenneth snapped out of it, shoved his phone into his pocket, and made a beeline for the restroom. He looked at his reflection, searching for any sign that he was losing it.

Was he really getting flustered over a half-hearted compliment from Emily? They were supposed to be like brothers, the kind of friends who could share a bathroom without giving it a second thought. If Emily ever found out he was actually nervous because of her, she’d never let him hear the end of it.

Definitely not good. He had to get a grip.

Kenneth splashed cold water on his face, trying to wash away the ridiculous thoughts swirling in his mind.

***

Out in the suburbs, at the research institute, Charlotte sat at a table, her delicate arm resting outstretched in front of the blood draw machine. Anthony stood close by, her coat draped over his arm, his face tense with worry.

“Anthony, you really don’t have to worry,” Dr. David said, catching his anxious expression and offering a gentle smile. “The automated blood draw is quick and accurate. It barely hurts at all.”

“Lottie’s not going to feel much,” he added. Honestly, Charlotte had been through enough. A little blood test wasn’t about to faze her.

Anthony nodded, just a hint of relief in his eyes. As soon as the machine beeped, signaling it was done, he moved over, rolled down Charlotte’s sleeve, slipped her coat back on her shoulders, and took her cold hand in his.

“When will we know the results?” Anthony asked quietly, looking up at Dr. David.

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