True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 426

Chapter 426 A Quiet Warning

She was just curious about that guy. No way was she actually interested in him.

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“Good.” Alfred let out a relieved breath. “You’re still young. You should be focusing on your studies–actually, no, your career.”

Arabella couldn’t help but smile wryly. “Got it.”

Alfred glanced back at the man. “But since you noticed him, I could look into it if you want.”

“No need. He’s nobody important.” Arabella shook her head.

“Nobody important?” A voice suddenly cut in right next to her ear, making her jump.

She turned, frowning when she saw who it was. “Mr. Stewart. When did you get here?”

Matthew looked down at her, his tone carrying a hint of something restrained. “You know him?”

“No, I don’t,” Arabella shot back. “Why?”

“Dr. Hamilton has a habit of staring at people she doesn’t know?” One eyebrow lifted, his gaze unreadable.

Arabella fought the urge to roll her eyes. “I was just curious.”

“Someone who can make Dr. Hamilton curious–I wonder what’s so special about him?” Matthew turned to look in the same direction, as if trying to figure it out for himself.

Arabella found his behavior weird. “Mr. Stewart, did you need something?”

“Just curious.” Matthew’s response was simple.

Arabella almost did roll her eyes that time.

Was he for real? He was clearly mocking her.

“Mr. Stewart, if you’re that bored, maybe go keep Robert company. I’m sure with all the eligible young women here tonight, he’d be happy to help you pick out a wife.” Her tone was sharp.

“Grandpa said I should spend more time with you. Get to know each other better.” Matthew said it so bluntly, it caught her off guard.

Arabella stared at him. “You’re joking, right?”

She thought they’d agreed–pretend to play along publicly while quietly pushing back. What was he doing?

“What if I’m serious? What if I’m not?” There was a teasing edge to his voice now.

Arabella sighed, exasperated. “Serious or not, it doesn’t matter. I just hope you remember what we agreed on.”

They’d made a deal. He couldn’t just back out now.

“What agreement?” Alfred’s eyes narrowed, suddenly alert.

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Chapter 426 A Quiet Warning

He had no idea what they were talking about, and he didn’t like it.

“Nothing.” They answered at the same time.

Alfred’s mouth twitched. Yeah, that definitely meant something was going on.

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Matthew looked down at Arabella. “If you remember our agreement, then watch yourself. Otherwise, Grandpa might get the wrong idea.”

“My position here is Alfred’s friend.” Arabella glared at him. Was he seriously picking a fight right now?

“Even as Alfred’s friend, you shouldn’t stare at strange men like that.” Matthew’s voice was low. “And you’re drawing too much attention.”

Did she not realize how she looked tonight? How could she not notice the eyes on her?

“You’re acting really weird today.” Arabella frowned. “No one was paying attention to me until you walked over. If anyone’s not watching themselves, it’s you.”

He was the one who’d drawn every eye in the room by coming to talk to her in this quiet corner. Now people were whispering and staring.

“Mr. Stewart, I actually think it’s best if you leave too.” Alfred stepped in. He didn’t fully understand their back–and–forth, but he didn’t like Matthew’s attitude toward Arabella.

Something felt off.

Back at Hamilton Manor, he’d never been on board with the marriage arrangement. Thankfully, Matthew had seemed against it too back then. But now? He wasn’t so sure.

Matthew glanced at Alfred, his gaze darkening.

“Oh no!” A sudden commotion cut through the room.

Arabella blinked, staring at Matthew’s suit. It was soaked. What just happened?

“Mr. Stewart, I’m so sorry! It was an accident–my hand slipped. I didn’t mean to-” Ruby’s voice rang out, full of fake panic as she kept apologizing.

The air around Matthew went cold. Icy. Like he might freeze someone solid any second.

“Ruby, what happened?” Florence hurried over, her face tight with displeasure. “I shouldn’t have let you come if this is how you

act.”

“Matthew, your clothes-” Florence’s expression softened with concern. “You should go change.”

“That’s not necessary.” His voice was low, controlled.

“Please. Let me have someone bring you a fresh suit.” Florence wasn’t taking no for an answer. She gestured to a staff member. “Go get a change of clothes immediately.”

“Yes, ma’am.” The staff member hurried off.

“Matthew, why don’t you go to one of the guest rooms and clean up? The clothes will be there soon.” Florence’s tone left little room

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Chapter 426 A Quiet Warning

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for argument.

Seeing no way out, Matthew nodded. “Alright. Thank you, Florence.”

“Of course. It was Ruby’s fault. I’m just glad you’re not making a big deal of it.” Florence shot Ruby a pointed look.

Matthew turned to Ruby, his gaze flat. “It was an accident.”

Ruby’s stomach flipped. Something in his eyes made her feel like he saw right through her. She dropped her gaze, guilt flickering beneath the surface.