The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1461

Darren asked with a twinkle in his eye, "Romeo, you a fan of the liquid courage? I've picked out a few light beers for ya."

Romeo glanced at Arabella instinctively before answering obediently, "No, I don't drink."

Catching Belinda's gaze, Darren chuckled and put the beer bottles back, "Well, I guess I'll pass too. Just didn't know if you had a taste for it, so I picked out a few. Good on ya, lad. Staying sober's a fine habit."

Swallowing, he looked longingly at the bottles. He'd been hoping for a cheeky pint.

Belinda knew he was itching for a drink but deliberately ignored it, smiling warmly at Romeo, "This is your first time over for dinner, We weren't sure what you like. If there's anything on the table that's not to your taste, just say the word and I won't have it made next time."

"He's not fussy at all. Eats everything," Arabella chimed in quickly.

Romeo looked at Arabella with an adoring gaze, "Bella's right. I'm not picky at all."

"You're such a catch." Belinda said as she got up to serve him more food, "Dig in, then. These dishes are the family favorites."

"Thanks, Grandma Belinda."

After serving Romeo, Belinda turned to Arabella, "Here you go, Bella. Eat up. You work so hard and I can't really share your burdens, but I hope this meal makes life feel a bit brighter, even if just for a moment."

Arabella softened, "Thank you, Grandma."

"Don't mention it, sweetie."

"This soup's killer, really hits the spot." Darren also stood up, ladling some for Romeo and then for Arabella.

"Romeo, it’s your first time here. Make yourself at home. Whatever you want to eat or drink, don't hold back." Bard clapped him on the back genially, "After we eat, I'd love to have a good chat with you."

Upon Bard sent the invitation, Eunice interjected, "Romeo has his own family to be with. I heard his grandparents have just got back on their feet, and his parents are back in the country. Let him fulfill his family duties first. He can join us any time."

"Or he could have dinner twice on that day - one with his family and then with us! He's practically one of us anyway. We'd love to have him over."

As soon as Darren said this, everyone burst into laughter.

"Pop, you're gonna stuff the poor boy before he's even your grandson-in-law," Eunice laughed as she ladled Darren some soup.

Darren looked hopefully at Romeo, thinking how much livelier that day would be with him there.

Romeo chuckled, "Actually, my parents also invited Bella over for dinner. Haven't asked her yet, but if Bella's up for it, we can come here first, then head over there."