The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1565

"It was his encouragement that saw me through the darkest days of my life." The girl in the white coat spoke with a lingering sense of gratitude.

"He's a good soul, you know," her mother chimed in, her eyes glistening with tears. "We were having a rough time financially, and he went ahead and covered the surgery costs, easing our burdens. I never used to be into celebs, but now I'm all for my daughter fangirling over him. Heck, I'm on board too."

"Hey, we sure picked the right guy! Things are looking up now, no need for tears, you should be happy!"

"His handwriting is so neat! Can you send me that quote? I wanna make it my screensaver."

"Me too, me too!"

"David's always been a stand-up guy," a long-haired girl interjected. "Remember last Christmas, when we went back to our hometown and there was this massive flood? Water filled up the first three floors of our building, and we were stranded on the rooftop, waiting for help. It was terrifying, and out of nowhere, we saw these volunteers in a lifeboat paddling towards us. My legs were jelly, I could barely stand, and this volunteer came over to carry me. He's got a hat, a mask on, but I look into his eyes and—no way—it's David! I was so stunned, I started crying. He didn't know I recognized him, still speaking in the kindest voice, telling me not to be afraid. I fell for him harder in that moment."

A girl with a ponytail picked up the story, "Yeah, when David got snapped doing relief work, some people accused him of just showing off. Please, who would wear a hat and mask, blend in with volunteers, and put on a show for three days straight?"

She had a point, having been a volunteer herself. "I didn't follow any stars back then, but seeing him tirelessly rescuing people and delivering supplies, wading through the water with us, pulling boats, water up to his knees and he didn't care. I thought, 'This guy's got focus and looks to boot.' Never would have guessed he was famous. That's when I fell for him."

The ponytailed girl seemed lost in the memory, her emotions palpable.