The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella)

Chapter 1952

Reporters from every media outlet in the city had received an invitation from the Collins family, abuzz with anticipation over the

major announcement they were set to make today. They had gathered early outside the upscale hotel.

The hotel was usually frequented by big shots and high rollers. Average Joes couldn't even dream of affording a night there.

A passerby, curious at the sight of the crowd, casually filmed a clip and uploaded it online, sparking a frenzy of speculation among

netizens.

"What earth-shattering news could the Collins family possibly be announcing today?"

"Could it be related to the engagement between the Collins and the McMillians?"

"The Collins choosing the McMillian's hotel for their press conference, and even treating the press to a meal? Sounds like they're

about to announce something big about both families."

"Could it be Romeo and Serena are getting hitched ahead of schedule?"

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"What? No way, right?"

This speculation sent the topic viral, with snetizens even heading to the scene to capture the scoop.

Soon enough, three luxurious stretch limos pulled up at the hotel entrance. Photographers swarmed, cameras at the ready,

snapping away furiously.

The drivers and bodyguards swiftly opened the car doors with practiced precision.

From the first vehicle stepped Phillip and Shirley, dressed impeccably, their faces alight with warm smiles.

Flashes popped incessantly as reporters crowded around.

"Phillip, Shirley, may we have a few words?"

"What's the big news the Collins are set to announce? Can you give us a hint? What brings you here today? Is it about the

engagement with the Collins?"

"Is the McMillian-Collins wedding happening sooner than planned?"

Phillip, ever the tease, simply beamed and said, "You'll find out soon enough."

Knowing they wouldn't get more from him, the reporters changed tack. "How did you spend last night's New Year's Eve? Was it a

family gathering?"

Shirley, with generous openness, replied, "With our future granddaughter-in-law."

The air crackled with excitement as shutters clicked nonstop, each journalist vying for the exclusive.

"Was your future granddaughter-in-law visiting? Did she join you for the dinner?"

"Do you like her?"

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"Are you satisfied with this future addition to the family?"

Shirley's grin was so wide it nearly split her face. "Extremely satisfied."

The flashes continued to go off, capturing every beaming expression.

"And are you considering passing on the heirloom crown necklace to her?" someone ventured to ask.

When Shirley had married Phillip, among her many gifts had been a cherished crown necklace, studded with 999 pristine

diamonds, a symbol of opulence and beauty.

The necklace had made headlines worldwide. Crafted by a top-tier designer and set with the finest diamonds, such a piece had

cost a staggering $300 million in that era!

Shirley had previously hinted in public that the necklace was meant to be passed down to her granddaughter-in-law.

Today, with a twinkle in her eye, Shirley revealed, "It's already been given."