The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1602

The sun had barely peeked over the horizon when Arabella sat down for breakfast, ready to take on the day. As she reached to the door, Louisa called out in a rush.

“Bella, do you have a busy day at work today? When will you be back?”

Perhaps sensing her daughter's hesitation, Louisa quickly added, “You know, with the holidays around the corner, we used to get new outfits made for the occasion. This year, your dad and I thought it would be fun to go for matching family outfits. What do you think?”

Arabella looked at her mother, then at her father Kenneth, who was practically wearing his hope on his sleeve.

“You mean the whole family wearing matching outfits?”

“Yes! Just imagine how cozy and loving that would look!” Louisa’s eyes sparkled with anticipation, while Kenneth looked eagerly at Arabella.

“Your brothers always thought it was too childish and never wanted to join in, but this year could be different. If you’re in, they’ll surely be fighting to wear them too.”

“I know you have a real knack for design, but let's have others handle the new clothes. You should take it easy.”

“That’s right. We don’t want you to worry about these things. Just want your opinion. What do you think about us wearing matching outfits for the New Year?”

“I’d better get going then,” Arabella said her goodbyes and stepped out the door.

At that moment, both Kenneth and Louisa’s phones buzzed with incoming messages. It was Serena.

Serena had sent Louisa a heartfelt essay of a message, and then forwarded another well-prepared essay to Kenneth.

Each of her messages was lengthy, reviving memories for Kenneth and Louisa, one by one. They were transported back over a decade, holding her hand as she learned to walk, playing with her and her toys. Every award she won, every commendation from her teachers, every time she stood out as exceptional, filled them with pride and contentment.