True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 591

Arabella stared at him, utterly confused. "No way."

She didn't feel that at all—plus, Matthew wasn't the childish type.

"It's hard to put into words. He's just... different when you're around. The way he acts shifts somehow," Edward explained.

Arabella bit her lower lip lightly, recalling how Matthew had mentioned watching her during dinner. Her expression grew a little uneasy.

Edward went on, "And Alfred is acting kind of off too. He seems almost defensive toward Mr. Stewart—probably some big-brother instinct kicking in for you."

Arabella paused. "Edward... what are you trying to say, exactly?"

"I'm saying maybe Mr. Stewart is into you, and Alfred picked up on it too." Edward lowered his voice to almost a whisper.

Arabella's breath caught. She shook her head quickly. "No, that's impossible."

"Why not?" Edward pressed.

"Because..." After he and Naomi cleared the air, the Miller family had been hinting at a match between them. She'd noticed he hadn't agreed, but he hadn't refused either, and he did act a little differently around Brielle.

But she couldn't tell Edward any of that. After a brief hesitation, she just repeated, "It's really not possible."

"It's not just me. Alfred definitely noticed it too," Edward reminded her.

Arabella pressed her lips together, her expression turning complicated.

Seeing her deep in thought, Edward didn't push further.

He'd given her the heads-up. He trusted she'd figure things out on her own.

A little while later, the group returned to the main living area.

"It's getting late. Let's all turn in—we've got that sunrise to catch tomorrow," Ethan said.

Frank added, looking at Arabella, "Especially you. You're still healing, so take it easy."

"I know, Frank," Arabella replied with a soft smile.

"Alright. We'll meet back here in the main room tomorrow morning for the sunrise," Alfred confirmed.

Ethan glanced at Edward. "Your room all set?"

"Everything's good. Nothing missing," Edward assured him.

"Good. Get some rest then," Ethan said.

Edward nodded. "Will do."

He looked over at Arabella again. "Try to rest up early."

"Okay," she agreed quietly.

Soon, everyone headed toward their own rooms.

Matthew reached his door but didn't go in. Instead, he stood there, his gaze fixed on Arabella.

Feeling his eyes on her, Arabella frowned slightly.

But since her brothers hadn't gone inside yet, she pretended not to notice and slipped into her room.

A flicker of disappointment passed through Matthew's eyes, but he kept looking at her closed door.

Arabella felt her cheeks grow warm, her heart beating a little faster. Normally she'd keep her cool, but not right now.

Every time she looked at him, that dream flashed through her mind. And now they were alone.

She knew it was just a dream, but ever since she'd had it, facing Matthew made her feel guilty.

While she was still wrestling with her thoughts, Matthew moved closer, casting a shadow over her. Startled, she tried to step back.

He lifted an arm, gently blocking her retreat, trapping her between him and the wall.

They were close now, close enough that she could feel his breath mingling with hers.

"Matthew—I mean, Mr. Stewart—let's just talk calmly. Hands to yourself, please."

"Would you actually listen if we just talked?" His tone held a hint of playful challenge.

Arabella swallowed and gave a small nod. "Fine. You can... change the bandages."

Suddenly, Matthew felt a little dangerous. She just wanted him to leave sooner rather than later.

Especially with him standing this close. His lips were right there in her line of sight, and she couldn't help staring.

Ugh, some dreams really shouldn't be dreamed. Why did it have to be that one?

Feeling her self-control slipping, Arabella gave him a light push. "Mr. Stewart, could you... step back a little when you talk?"

Otherwise, she was seriously afraid she might do something she'd regret.

Matthew's lips curved into a faint, teasing smile. "Now that you're finally responding to me—tell me. Why have you been acting so strange? And why are you avoiding me?"