Chapter 431
Lavinia dropped Charlotte off at the school gate. She watched until Charlotte disappeared inside, then quickly pulled out her phone, practically buzzing with excitement as she messaged Anthony.
Anthony, you’re about to have a little sister.
It took Anthony a good half minute to reply. Are you pregnant?
He honestly didn’t think his mother needed to go that far just for a daughter.
No! Remember the girl I told you about last time? We want to make her our goddaughter.
Great. I don’t mind.
I’m planning to bring her to your grandmother’s birthday party. You’re all going to be blown away by her.
Blown away?
Lottie’s face popped into Anthony’s mind, and he couldn’t help but smile a little.
No one but Lottie could ever really impress him.
As long as you’re happy.
…
After evening study hall, Charlotte strolled out of the building, still chatting on her phone.
In the “Family Ties” group chat:
Jackson: Charlotte, that ‘Sunset’ painting you mentioned might take a while to find.
Adonis: Charlotte, since Patricia likes Halation’s art anyway, why not just paint a new one?
Charlotte didn’t answer right away.
Art needed inspiration. When you put your heart into it, the painting had a soul. “Sunset” was the one she’d worked hardest on. She’d sold all her other paintings, but not that one.
But her lab had moved several times. There was a real chance the painting had ended up as firewood.
Nine: Keep looking.
If she couldn’t find it, she’d just paint another one. There were still five days until the weekend. That should be enough.
She sent her reply, backed out of the
chat, and tossed her phone into her bag Pulling her cap a little lower, she kept her head down and slid into the sports car waiting by the curb.
one
Anthony lounged in the driver’s seat, one arm resting on the back, phone at his ear. Alright, got it.
When he saw her get in, he sat up a bit straighter, letting his hand fall to her waist. With a gentle tug, he pulled her closer, right into his arms.
He leanedan, letting his chin rest
lightly on her shoulder, his warmet
breath brushing against her eacàs he spoke in a low voice. Charlotte’s here. Want to say hi content
Charlotte blinked in surprise.
Before she could answer, Anthony hit speaker. Patricia’s lively voice filled the car.
Lottie, I’ve missed you.
Grandma.
Charlotte’s lips curved into a smile. She answered softly, Have you been feeling okay lately?
Good… Patricia started, then her tone shifted, and she coughed dramatically. Actually, not that great. Lottie, when can you come give me a check-up?
Charlotte almost laughed. The old lady was at it again.
She didn’t call her out, just hummed. Grandma, just let me know when you need me. I can come over anytime.
Patricia jumped at the offer, worried Charlotte might change her mind. Lottie, I wrote your invitation myself. You absolutely have to come.
I will, Grandma.
They chatted for a bit before hanging up.
Anthony had just taken his phone back, about to put it down, when it rang again.
Lavinia this time.
Anthony glanced at the caller ID, still holding Charlotte close as he answered.
Mom.
He barely got the word out before Lavinia’s angry voice came through loud and clear.
I heard from your grandmother that your new girlfriend is just a teenager and still in school? Anthony, I don’t approve!