True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 627

"It's fine," Edward said, brushing it off. He really didn't want to get into it.

Arabella studied his face, her gaze sharpening. "If you won't tell me, I'll just have to go ask the Clarks myself."

Edward winced at her words. "Arabella... you already know, don't you?"

A cold, understanding smile touched her lips. "Yeah. I figured."

"Figured what? That they want your help but don't trust you enough to ask directly!" Alfred's expression darkened, irritation clear in his voice.

"And I'm guessing they didn't hold back with their comments," Arabella added, her tone dry.

Edward pressed his lips together. He couldn't bring himself to confirm it, but his silence spoke volumes.

"It wasn't just about me, was it? They had things to say about you, too," she pushed gently.

Edward remained quiet, looking away.

A short, humorless laugh escaped Arabella, though her expression softened. "Alright, Edward. Tell them I'll see Harper tomorrow."

"What?" Edward's eyes widened in disbelief. She was agreeing?

"Or I can call them myself," she said, already reaching for her phone.

"No, I'll do it," Edward said quickly, snapping out of his surprise. He pulled out his own phone and dialed Freya. "Arabella agreed. She'll be at the hospital tomorrow." He hung up before Freya could respond.

"Good," Arabella said, a satisfied note in her voice. Her mood seemed to genuinely lift. "Now let's eat."

Edward and Alfred exchanged a glance. She didn't seem to be putting on an act for their benefit; she actually looked... pleased.

Why?

Was she really not upset at all?

A fresh wave of guilt washed over Edward. He was convinced she was doing this for him, swallowing her pride when she shouldn't have to.

Alfred watched her thoughtfully. Something about her current demeanor felt a little too calm, almost surreal.

"Come on, dig in!" Arabella urged when neither moved.

"Right. Let's eat," Alfred said, pushing his suspicion aside for the moment.

Throughout the meal, Arabella steered the conversation toward lighter times, reminiscing about funny childhood memories she shared with Edward. Laughter filled the air, and the tense atmosphere from earlier gradually dissipated.

By the time dinner was over, Edward did feel considerably better.

Walking him to his car, Arabella said, "Get some rest tonight. I'll handle the hospital visit tomorrow. You've got work—no need for you to come."

"I should probably be there," Edward said, a thread of concern in his voice.

"You're not a medical professional, Edward. You'd just be standing around. Unless, of course, you're more worried about Harper than you're letting on?" she asked, a subtle challenge in her tone.

It worked exactly as she intended. "With your skills? Please. I have zero doubts," Edward replied defensively.

"Then it's settled. You stay home tomorrow," Arabella concluded.

"I'll call you after and let you know how it went," she promised.

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