The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella)

Chapter 1443

Chapter 1443

Imagine a world where eighteen years of nurturing and affection for a child could be tested by the bitterness of sibling rivalry.

"I'm just worried that Bella might be getting the short end of the stick, Eunice admitted candidly.

The fear was that ever since Bella's return hsix months ago, she had been walking on eggshells for the sake of farnily

harmony, always yielding to her sister Serena. After all, the family already owed her so much.

If Arabella continued to compromise and step back, wouldn't that add insult to injury?

“That's why | want to get to the bottom of this as soon as possible. If it turns out Serena is behind the tampering, maybe we can

get Louisa to cut the knot and minimize the damage to Bella," Eunice continued.

The longer the issue dragged on, the greater the potential hurt to Arabella.

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The family's affection for Serena was deep, and the revelation of her true character would only bring them more sorrow.

"tt wouldn't be good for the family either."

"Don't overthink it. Once the investigation is done, the truth will be clear,” Bard comforted her. "I just dread the day we might have

to make a choice between Serena and Bella."

One had been cherished like a daughter for eighteen years, raised and protected.

The other, deeply indebted to, had given so much to the family.

Just then, a servant approached with news, "Ma‘am, Ms. Bella has arrived."

"I have something to ask her,” said Eunice, standing up. “Bard, shall we go downstairs?"

Bard offered his arm, and they descended together.

Darren, his mood buoyant after officially bequeathing everything in the wooden chest to Arabella, hummmed a tune on his way

home.

A gentle smile graced Arabella's face, her joy seemingly tied to her grandfather's happiness.

"Bella, you're back!" Eunice greeted her with warmth as she descended the stairs. "l was wondering what to do with the gifts

Romeo brought last night.

He went overboard, and | haven't even unwrapped them yet."

The packaging alone looked expensive.

If not for Serena's outburst the previous evening, the elders might have already met Romeo and been singing his praises.

Arabella then remembered Romec's instructions about the gifts.

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As she distributed them, she said with a soft smile, "It's just a token of his regard. Please, accept them."

Darren unveiled a set of exquisite chess pieces, hitting right upon his hobby.

Belinda received a painting of inestimable value, her eyes lighting up with admiration and affection.

Bard's gift was an antique vase worth a fortune.

And for Eunice, a tea set of unparalleled value.

From the top of the stairs, Serena watched the scene unfold, her irritation mounting. She couldn't believe that Romeo had spent so

much just for a first impression.

If he wasn't serious about Arabella, he wouldn't have bothered.

With that thought, Serena's resentment towards Arabella deepened, her own misfortunes stark against Arabella’s happiness.

Suddenly, she realized that Martin hadn't sought her out all day.