The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1537

Kenneth noticed that Serena's eyes were rimmed with red from crying, and gently patted her shoulder. "Hey, why don't you get some rest, kiddo? We can talk about this tomorrow. If you're innocent, then it was your mom and I who jumped the gun tonight. You know we owe your sister a lot. We just want to make it up to her. We were worried she’d suffer where we can't see."

"It's okay," Serena sniffled, her voice showing a blend of resignation and understanding. "It's my lot, isn't it? I've been living the life that should've been hers. So a little misunderstanding and a little hardship on my part—it's nothing compared to what she's been through. I can handle it."

"That's not what we meant." Kenneth's guilt deepened. They had indeed rushed over to confront their injured daughter without getting the full picture, just taking someone else's word for it.

"This isn't the first time you've questioned me like this. It's fine, really. The truth will get out, right?" Serena attempted a brave smile, but tears betrayed her. "You could check, you know. It was Martin who carried me home tonight. If I still had any inappropriate feelings for my brother-in-law, I wouldn't let any other man get close."

Kenneth nodded, "We understand. Let's give Serena some space to rest."

Letting go of her mother's embrace, Serena managed a restrained voice, "Goodnight, Mom and Dad."

"Goodnight," Kenneth said, reaching the doorway and pausing. A pang of remorse held him back. "Are your injuries okay?"

The question opened the floodgates of Serena, who fought back a fresh wave of tears.