True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 674

Arabella walked back and took a seat at the picnic table next to the herb garden, gesturing for Matthew to join her. Once they were both settled, she asked casually, "Ethan stopped by to see you, didn't he?"

"Yeah, he did," Matthew replied. "The contract's all signed—he took his copy with him. All that's left is your signature."

"I'll sign it as soon as I get it," Arabella said with a nod.

Matthew glanced over at her. "No need to rush."

"Since everything's lined up, it's better to keep things moving," she responded with a light smile.

"That's fine," Matthew said, his gaze softening. "Just go at whatever pace works for you."

For a moment, Arabella was caught off guard. Her heart gave a quiet, unexpected flutter, and she turned her face away, feeling a hint of self-consciousness.

Sunlight washed over both of them, wrapping them in a warm, golden glow.

Leaning back in her chair, Arabella closed her eyes contentedly, looking like a relaxed cat basking in the sun. Matthew turned to watch her, and a slight, unconscious smile touched the corners of his mouth.

He didn't disturb her, quietly sipping his coffee instead. Everything around them was still, the bright afternoon sun lending the scene a peaceful, easy warmth.

Arabella hadn't meant to doze off, but the comfort of the moment pulled her under.

A gentle breeze rustled past, stirring her awake. She opened her eyes slowly and glanced toward Matthew. "Sorry—I fell asleep. The sun was just so nice."

"It's okay," Matthew replied, his tone unusually gentle.

Arabella checked the time. "Wow, it's gotten late."

"It's past noon," Matthew said. "How about we get some lunch?"

"Sure. Since I kept you here, lunch is on me," Arabella offered as she stood up.

Matthew looked at her but didn't accept or decline the offer.

"Let's go," she said, already moving.

But just as they were about to leave, her phone rang.

Seeing Brielle's name on the screen, Arabella answered. "Hey, Brielle."

"Arabella, can you come over?" Brielle's voice sounded strained, almost panicked.

"What's going on?" Arabella asked.

"It's Grumpy. He's had way too much to drink," Brielle explained, her words hurried. "I'm here by myself and I don't know what to do." She sounded like she was on the verge of tears.

Arabella frowned. "What about Lucas? Why is he drinking so much all of a sudden?"

"I think... his heart's broken," Brielle said, before recounting everything that had happened earlier on campus.

Arabella sighed in mild frustration. "You two... honestly. Where are you?"

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