The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1519

"What's this about running errands? The kid's just sensible, volunteered on her own. Besides, I'm pushing sixty - how many more birthday cakes will I get to share with her? And you have the nerve to call me out? We agreed on a 7 o'clock start for the birthday bash, and look what time it is now!" Eugene feigned indignation.

"We were halfway here when we realized we'd left the birthday present behind and had to double back." Nelson explained, handing over a wrapped gift with a grin, "Wish you endless happiness and prosperity."

"It wasn’t my fault; it was Nelson's car I was in. If he's got to go back for the gift, I've got to tag along." President Charles chuckled as he presented his own offering, "Here's a little something from me. Wish you a long, healthy and joyful life."

Eugene beamed with delight, "Now that we're all gathered, before we cut the cake, I just have to say - Jamie Noelle, this cake you've made is truly a masterpiece. It's both creative and meaningful, a real treat for the heart. Thank you, my pumpkin. You must've put a lot of time into this surprise, didn't you?"

As he spoke, he patted Arabella on the shoulder with such fondness, as if he was speaking to his own granddaughter.

His words landed like a bombshell, leaving everyone in profound shock.

"She really is Jamie Noelle."

"When she played The Life earlier, I suspected she might be Jamie Noelle, but given her young age and how she admitted she’s Queena, I dismissed the thought as quickly as it came. And yet, she is Jamie Noelle herself."

"My goodness, she's incredible."

"I've always imagined Jamie Noelle to be some venerable old man; never would I have guessed she's so young and pretty."

"What a rare gem."

Alma, having fetched a backup dress from the car and freshened up, had barely stepped into the garden intending to have a word with Serena when she overheard Mr. Albright reveal Arabella as Jamie Noelle.