The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1672

"Thank you all for carving time out of your busy schedules to join us tonight. I have an announcement to make."

The assembled guests turned their attention towards him, eyes alight with curiosity and anticipation, as if they all were curious about what he would announce next.

"As many of you may recall, the disappearance of my kids with my ex-wife - Dennis and Carol -shook our world. After years of searching to no avail, they have miraculously returned home safe and sound. I couldn't contain such joy and felt the need to share this wonderful news. I apologize for the impromptu nature of this gathering, and for not sending out invitations in advance. Your presence here is deeply appreciated, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for joining us on such short notice."

The idea that, after so many years, the siblings had come back was both astonishing and unexpected, sparking a wave of excited chatter among the guests.

Rudolf beckoned Carol and Dennis to the stage, "Allow me to introduce my son, Dennis Brooks." He said, patting Dennis's shoulder proudly before turning to Carol, "And this is my daughter, Carol."

"After all these years, they've grown into such fine young adults."

"Who would've thought we'd see a family reunion after a dozen years."

"And here I was, worried that Rudolf and Maureen's spoiled son would be an embarrassment. But look at Dennis - there's hope for the Brooks family yet."

"Indeed, and Carol looks so poised and elegant. A breath of fresh air compared to that pretentious Katherine."

The guests were slowly realizing whose voice it was, their eyes turning towards Maureen at the head table. Initially, Maureen had brushed off the male voice as a line from a movie, but upon hearing her own voice, the gravity of the situation dawned on her.

"Tomorrow, Simona and her sister, Celeste Temple, are taking their families to the amusement park. Find your moment. And don't say I didn't warn you. Make it look tragic." Maureen's voice continued from the speakers, "She must be dead on spot. The more brutal, the better."

The male driver sounded fearful, "If the cops trace it back to me, my family."

"Your family knows nothing. And with you gone, there'll be no witnesses. Don't worry. I've got it all planned out. No one will ever find out. Everyone will think it was just a tragic accident."