The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1543

Moving next door was like a punishment for her, and she understood that all too well.

Once the doted-upon princess of the household, now she had fallen to the status of a mere "guest".

The drastic change wasn't just about her own standing; it symbolized a demotion in her parents' hearts, from daughter to outsider in a heartbeat.

Louisa scoffed, "You still don't get it, do you? Still thinking Bella's been smearing your name behind your back? Let me tell you, she hasn't said a word. We just put two and two together. For the past six months, you've been playing us for fools, honey-tongued to our faces while stabbing us in the back. We're utterly disappointed in you."

"Mom???" Serena couldn't believe they knew. If Arabella hadn't spilled the beans, then how did they figure it out? Had they been suspicious of her all along, their trust eroding over time?

"After Bella returned to our home, your dad and I sat you down a few times, hoping you'd understand. We felt guilty about Bella, wanting to make it up to her. But we never shortchanged you. Your life remained unchanged. All these years, emotionally and financially, you've gained so much from being part of the Collins family, and we've never treated you unfairly."

Louisa's icy gaze fell on her, "But what did you do? You abused our trust, misled us, bullied Bella. You need to go next door and reflect on your actions."

"Mom, let me explain," Serena tried, but Louisa clearly wasn't interested in listening.

"I had hoped you two could be good siblings, or at least live under the same roof with mutual respect. You didn’t have parents or people to rely on, and we were willing to take you in, treat you as our own flesh and blood. We had discussed, and we planned for your future, your wedding gift - it would be only more. But you're still not satisfied! What has Bella done wrong? She's simply returned to the home she should have never left. She's eighteen years late, and during those years, you've been living lavish in her stead, yet you can't bear to share. Your dad and I have reflected; perhaps it was Martha who led you astray. Talking more now is pointless. Go next door and think things through. And if we learn that you haven't changed, that you dare disrespect Bella again, then Collins will no longer be your surname."