"Wow, Arabella, this painting is absolutely stunning," Alfred exclaimed, his face lighting up with pride. "I'm telling everyone—you are going to be a world-famous artist one day. Just you wait."
"Alfred," Arabella replied, half amused and half embarrassed. "I just threw this together."
"If this is what you call 'throwing together,' then I can't imagine how incredible it would be if you actually took your time." Alfred stood by his opinion completely.
Arabella decided to let it go and changed the subject. "How's lunch coming along?"
"All under control," Alfred assured her. "Ethan's a real food connoisseur. He knows exactly what he's doing in the kitchen."
"Alfred," Ethan cut in, sounding slightly irritated. "Robert and Matthew are joining us. We might be short on food now—you figure it out."
Alfred quickly backtracked. "Okay, okay—you're not just a foodie, you're a culinary expert."
Ethan shot him a look. "Can we not make everything about food?"
It made it sound like he was the only one who ever ate, when he'd gone to all this trouble to prepare a meal for everyone.
"Fine, you're an investment genius. Happy now?" Alfred conceded once more.
Listening to their back-and-forth, Arabella couldn't help but laugh.
Seeing her smile, Matthew felt the corner of his own mouth lift slightly without even realizing it.
"It's about time—let's head over and get ready to eat," Ethan suggested.
"Sounds good," everyone agreed, making their way toward the dining area.
"I'll pack this up," Alfred offered, helping Arabella carefully take down the easel.
Ethan gave him a warning glance. "Don't even think about keeping that for yourself."
"Of course not. I already called dibs on tonight's sunset painting," Alfred said with a light huff. "Unlike someone who asked for a sunrise piece—that's going to be way more work for Arabella."
"Arabella already said she was planning to watch the sunrise anyway," Ethan pointed out, then turned to her. "But really, if you don't end up catching it, don't worry about the painting. I was just throwing the idea out there."
Arabella smiled softly. "No way I'd miss the sunrise—I'm definitely going. And painting it is just something I'd do while I'm there. Even if I don't finish, I can always complete it later when I have time."
"That's good to hear," Ethan said, relieved. He didn't want her going out of her way just for a painting.
As Matthew listened to the three siblings chatting, his eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly.
"Mr. Stewart, lunch is ready. Shall we?" Ethan said, turning to Matthew.
Matthew gave a slight nod and followed the group to the dining area.
When they arrived, everyone immediately noticed the painting Alfred was carrying. The reactions were full of admiration.
"Well, looks like your family might have another rising artist on your hands!" Robert remarked with a warm laugh.
Ryan joined in, chuckling. "Let's hope your prediction comes true, Robert."
"Arabella's work is really impressive," several others chimed in, admiring the piece.



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The readers' comments on the novel: True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella)
Update please...
I started the novel with great interest. In the beginning the storyline was captivating. Then I feel that the more the story advances, the twists were no longer great. Moreover I don't like Arabella s personality, cold, distant......