Chapter 187

Anthony’s eyes darkened as he stubbed out his cigarette. He was just about to get out of the car when Charlotte appeared, walking up and pulling the door open herself. She climbed in, ducking her head as she slid onto the seat.
He turned, catching sight of her cheeks, which were flushed a deep pink. He reached out, unable to resist brushing his fingers against her skin. “Why’s your face all red?”
The cool touch of his hand sent a shiver through her. Charlotte tried to steady herself, but everything felt floaty. She frowned. “Had some fruit wine. I’m dizzy.”
“Drive,” Anthony told Hans. He draped his jacket over her shoulders, his voice softer as he gave Helen instructions to get some hangover soup ready.
Five minutes into the drive, Charlotte, who had been curled up in the corner, suddenly lifted her head. Her cheeks were even redder, and her clear eyes darted around the car before settling on Anthony.
He frowned, concern flickering over his face. “You’re not feeling well?”
He pulled her gently into his arms, wrapping an arm around her waist. Unscrewing a water bottle, he brought it to her lips. “Here. Drink a little.”
Charlotte didn’t answer. Her chin drooped onto his shoulder as she sipped the water, her big eyes never leaving his face.
Anthony let out a soft laugh. She looked so lost and adorable that he couldn’t help himself. He cupped the back of her neck, making sure she was comfortable. “If you feel sick, just lean on me and close your eyes. We’ll be home soon.”
The alcohol was getting to her. Charlotte barely had any clear thoughts left. She pressed her face against his shoulder, letting out a quiet sigh. His body felt so cool against her heated skin.
“Sit still,” Anthony warned, suddenly tense as she squirmed in his lap. He steadied her with gentle hands, his voice low and soothing. “You’ll just get dizzier if you move around.”
“My head hurts Charlotte muttered, her voice soft and a little whiny, like a child asking for comfort. Her gaze was unfocused, and she swayed a bit as she leaned into him.
The next second, she suddenly sat up straighter, arms wrapping tightly around his neck, her whole face burrowing into the crook of his shoulder. She clung to ling so hard it was like she’d never let go.
Hans glanced in the rearview mirror and nearly lost control of the wheel. Ms. Main drunk was definitely a new experience. When he caught a glimpse of Anthony’s stunned but, secretly pleased expression, Hans silently raised the divider.
Anthony was just as surprised. He hadn’t expected Charlotte to be even bolder drunk than she was when she sleepwalked.
“Lottie he murmured, holding her steady by the waist. He brushed a hand along her cheek and leaned in close to her ear. “Do you know how dangerous you’re being right now?”
“Not dangerous,” Charlotte mumbled, words muffled against his shirt. “I’ll protect you. I’ll protect you… forever.”
He blinked. She was going to protect him? Since when did their roles switch?
“Do you know who I am?” Anthony asked, his voice rough and a little teasing. He tilted her chin up so she had to look at him. “Lottie, why do you want to protect me?” Charlotte’s long lashes fluttered as she met his eyes. She seemed to really think about it. Her fingers wandered over his face, tracing his brows, then his eyes, then lingering on his lips.
Anthony’s gaze grew darker. He caught her restless hand and held it still.
“You are Charlotte’s words slurred together as she leaned forward, ker chin resting on his chest. She tipped her head back, gazing up at him through a maze. “A really, good-looking uncle.”