The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1534

The nurse knew at a glance that these wounds weren't from any fall or accident; they were inflicted by someone with a cruel hand. To beat a young girl into such a state, it was beyond heavy-handed.

When Serena heard she'd be in pain for a good fortnight, the tears started rolling down her cheeks. She felt so wronged and heartbroken.

"Is there any risk to her life?" Martin asked, his voice laced with concern.

"She was cussing you out with quite the spirit just now, so don't you worry, she's not gonna kick the bucket. It's just some bruises and cuts," the nurse said, picking up her tray and leaving the room.

Looking at Serena marked with bruises and lacerations, Martin couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy, "Who did this to you?"

Serena remained silent. Yeah, who would do such a thing to her?

Although Lindsay despised her, it didn't seem like her style to hire thugs to beat someone up on their doorstep.

So, who could it be?

An image of Arabella popped into her head.

But it couldn't be Arabella.

Arabella was always open and straightforward. If she wanted to fight, she'd do it face-to-face; it was not likely for her to resort to cowardly attacks.

Then who else could it be?

As she pondered, another name came to mind—Alma!

It had to be that snake!

"When are Mom and Dad getting back?" she asked through sobs.

She was battered and bruised so terribly, and yet her parents were slower to arrive than Martin, who was a mere outsider!

They were so unreliable!

"They received the news and are rushing back as fast as they can, and they should be here in about half an hour."

Serena attempted to get out of the bed, but Martin quickly scooped her up, his tone full of tenderness, "I'll take you home."

Serena wanted to lash out at him, but then she thought better of it. This man could be her sharpest weapon against others in the future.

She couldn't afford to drive him away.