Chapter 255 Family Ties
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A flicker of relief passed through Freya. At least a prison sentence was off the table. As for Carter, she could work on a plan to assist him later.
The morning sun streamed brightly through the windows.
Florence knocked gently on Arabella’s bedroom door. “Arabella, sweetheart, breakfast is ready.”
“Coming,” Arabella replied, opening the door and stepping into the hallway.
Florence noticed Arabella’s simple jeans and t–shirt. “Oh, dressed so casually today? Didn’t you like the dress I picked out for you?”
“I really do, Mom. It’s beautiful,” Arabella reassured her quickly. “It’s just that I have my second–phase flight evaluation today, so this is more practical.”
“Oh, of course,” Florence said, her momentary concern replaced by understanding. She had been ready to go shopping immediately if Arabella hadn’t liked her gift.
“Let’s head down, Mom,” Arabella said, linking her arm with Florence’s as they walked downstairs together.
In the dining room, Jonathan, Ethan, Alfred, and Naomi were already seated.
Seeing Naomi was also dressed in comfortable athletic wear, Florence remembered Arabella’s explanation. “Do you have an evaluation today too, Naomi?”
‘Yes, Mom. How did you know?” Naomi’s eyes brightened briefly–was her mother finally paying attention to her schedule again?
‘Well, I just asked Arabella why she wasn’t wearing her new dress, and she mentioned her practical test,” Florence explained. Since Vaomi was also in the flight program, the connection was obvious.
The light in Naomi’s eyes dimmed instantly. So it wasn’t really about her.
‘Since you’re both testing today, why don’t you go together?” Jonathan suggested warmly. That way, they could keep each other company, and the family wouldn’t have to worry about two separate trips.
‘Actually, Dad, I need to pick up Ruby on the way, so that won’t really work for me,” Naomi said, offering an apologetic smile.
‘I see,” Jonathan replied, a hint of uncertainty in his tone.
After taking her seat, Arabella said casually, “It’s alright, Dad. Alfred’s driving me.”
“Alfred is going with you?” Jonathan asked, surprised.
“I’m not testing, but I’m dropping Arabella off at the academy,” Alfred confirmed.
Jonathan felt a wave of relief. “Well, that’s good then.”
Ethan nudged a plate of Arabella’s favorite avocado toast closer to her. “If Alfred’s taking you, then I won’t crowd you.”
“It’s fine, Ethan. Focus on your work,” Arabella said gently. She knew how swamped and exhausted he’d been lately. A pang of jealousy shot through Naomi. “Since Alfred is taking Arabella, could you give me a ride, Ethan?” she asked hopefully.
1/3
12:47 pm DOD
Chapter 255 Family Ties
Ethan used to be her biggest ally–surely he wouldn’t refuse?
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“But you said you’re getting Ruby. With her along, you’ll have company. I don’t think you need me,” Ethan reasoned, figuring Ruby’s presence was sufficient.
Naomi’s face paled slightly. Even Ethan was treating her this way now!
“Alright, everyone, let’s eat,” Florence interjected cheerfully. “Arabella, make sure you have a good breakfast. You’ll need your energy and focus for the test.”
“Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll be fine,” Arabella said with a reassuring smile.
Florence then turned to Naomi. “You eat well too, dear. You’ll need your strength.”
“Thanks, Mom,” Naomi replied obediently, though inwardly she was seething. Everything seemed to revolve around Arabella now. It never used to be like this.
Florence beamed. “Good luck to you both. I’m sure you’ll both do wonderfully.”
“Absolutely. You’re both bright and capable. I have every confidence,” Jonathan added, his faith in both daughters evident.
“I’ll do my best,” Naomi said quietly, determined to pass flawlessly today so no one could overlook her any longer.
Arabella, feeling no particular pressure, simply smiled at her parents. “You should eat too, Mom, Dad.”
“Alright, let’s dig in,” Florence agreed happily.
After breakfast, two cars pulled out of Cloudrise Manor in succession.
Naomi drove behind Arabella’s car, her eyes shadowed with resentment. She felt her significance shrinking every day, and it was all Arabella’s fault.
Just wait. I’ll prove to everyone that I’m the better one.
At the next intersection, Naomi turned off to pick up Ruby.
Meanwhile, Alfred drove Arabella all the way to the flight academy.
After getting out of the car, Arabella waved. “You can head back now. I’m going in.”
“I’ll be back to pick you up after the eval,” Alfred stated.
“Okay,” Arabella agreed before turning to walk through the academy’s main gates.
“Beep, beep.”
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