True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 425

Chapter 425 Desperate Resolve

Chapter 425 Desperate Resolve

+20 Free Coins

“Did you see that, Naomi? She’s so calculated. Shows up to your birthday party and spends the whole time cozying up to someone else.” Ruby’s voice dripped with disdain.

Naomi bit down on her lip, her chest tightening with bitterness.

Why?

It is always like this.

“What does she have that I don’t?” The question slipped out before Naomi could stop it.

“Naomi, it’s not that she’s better than you. She’s just sneakier.” Ruby seized the moment, adding fuel to the fire.

“Naomi, there you are!” Florence appeared, smiling as she took Naomi’s hand. “Come with me. There are some people I want you to meet.”

Naomi’s stomach dropped. “Who?”

“You’ll see.” Florence tugged her toward a group of young men standing nearby.

“Everyone, this is my daughter, Naomi.” Florence’s smile was warm as she made the introductions. “Naomi, this is Mr. Barnes‘ son, and that’s…”

As Florence went down the list, Naomi’s face drained of color.

“Nice to meet you, Ms. Hamilton.” The men greeted her politely, all proper manners and practiced smiles.

But standing there, Naomi felt nothing but humiliation.

So this was it. The Hamiltons had finally made up their minds. They’d let Arabella have Matthew, and she–the one who’d never really belonged–was being pawned off on whoever was available. Her feelings, her wants, none of it mattered. 2

“Nice to meet you too.” Naomi forced the words out through clenched teeth, holding onto her composure by a thread.

“So, Ms. Hamilton, what are you into?” one of them asked.

“I studied design. So when I’m not handling company work, I usually spend my time sketching,” she answered, keeping her voice steady.

“Not only is Ms. Hamilton beautiful, but she’s also talented and accomplished. Truly the pride of the Hamilton family” the compliment was delivered with a smooth smile.

But the words nearly shattered her mask.

She’d grown up in that house, but she wasn’t their blood. And now that Arabella was back, she’d been pushed aside.

Calling her the pride of the Hamilton family now felt like a punch to the gut–a cruel joke that cut deep.

“That’s very kind of you. You’re all impressive in your own right–well–known names in Dorator City.” Naomi forced herself to respond gracefully.

1/3

Chapter 425 Desperate Resolve

After a few more exchanges, the men warmed up to her, their attention shifting from polite to eager.

+20 Free Coins

“Naomi, I have to step away for a bit. You all enjoy yourselves.” Florence excused herself, leaving the young people to mingle.

Every man she’d invited had been carefully chosen–rising stars from influential families across Doranor City. If Naomi connected with any of them, Florence would finally be able to breathe easy.

But after a few more minutes of conversation, Naomi made her exit. “I’m sorry, everyone. I need to step away for a moment.”

“Of course, Ms. Hamilton. Take your time.” The men nodded, all politeness.

Naomi found Ruby and pulled her aside, her voice low and tight. “I can’t wait any longer.”

“But we haven’t found the right moment yet.” Ruby’s brow furrowed.

Naomi’s eyes darkened. “If there’s no moment, we make one.”

The Hamilton family’s intentions were crystal clear. She couldn’t afford to wait around. If she stayed passive, she’d lose any chance

she had left.

“So what do we do?” Ruby asked.

She’d already arranged things on her end, but the plan only worked if Matthew and Naomi ended up alone together. And so far, Matthew hadn’t even glanced at Naomi, let alone given them an opening.

Naomi leaned in, her voice dropping to a whisper as she laid it out.

Ruby’s eyes lit up. “Got it. I’m on it.”

“Good. I’m counting on you.” Naomi nodded, playing the part of trusting cousin.

Ruby slipped away quietly, disappearing into the crowd.

Naomi’s gaze drifted back to Matthew. He was still looking at Arabella.

Her heart twisted. She gritted her teeth, resolve hardening in her chest.

Across the room, Matthew watched Arabella, his expression unreadable.

The party hummed with energy–young people clustering together, laughing, talking, deliberately avoiding the older crowd But in one corner, a solitary figure stood apart, silent, his eyes fixed on Naomi.

His stillness made him stand out in the lively room.

Even someone as reserved as Matthew had people to exchange polite words with.

But this man was so quiet, he looked like he didn’t belong at all.

“Alfred, who is that?” Arabella asked, curious.

“That’s the heir of the Cole family.” Alfred glanced over dismissively.

Arabella frowned slightly. “Has he been watching Naomi the whole time?”

2/3

3:31 pm Ppp.

Chapter 425 Desperate Resolve

“Has he?” Alfred shrugged. “Didn’t notice.”

“Are you sure?” Arabella studied the man. He seemed very focused on Naomi.

“Do you think he knows her?” she asked.

“No idea. I don’t know him.” Alfred shook his head. “I doubt Naomi’s ever met him either.”

“Odd.” Arabella’s curiosity flickered.

Alfred shot her a look. “Please don’t tell me you’re into guys like that.”

Arabella rolled her eyes. “Alfred, what are you even talking about?”

!