The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1702

Romeo nodded, “Yeah, me, him, and a bunch of other guys grew up together.”

Because as they grew older, they each started their businesses or took over the family companies, they were always jet-setting around the world, and hardly ever had time to gather.

“What favor did he do for you?”

In Romeo’s mind, Timothy wasn’t the type to poke his nose into other people’s affairs, or go out of his way to help.

Yesterday, in the presidential suite, he hadn’t asked too much, only knew that his Bella was meeting someone today over coffee. As for who this person was, or what favor they’d done, he was clueless.

“I had run into a bit of trouble, and both times he stood up for me,” Arabella explained succinctly.

“Me—Timothy—always had a soft spot. I can’t help playing the knight whenever I see someone in need. Well, I’m a bit thirsty, let me grab a coffee.”

“Didn’t you still have half of iced coffee left?” Rome found Timothy was distracted, his mood a bit off.

With a laugh, Timothy responded, “It’s too cold, I’m gonna get a hot one.”

He was about to walk away when Romeo offered, “I’ve got a hot coffee right here.”

He had several cups on his tray, all different flavors he’d ordered for Arabella to try.

“That’s for your fiancée. I’ll get my own, you guys enjoy,” Timothy replied, quickly excusing himself from the situation.

Perhaps he couldn’t bear the idea that the girl he’d liked for so long was his buddy’s bride-to-be. His heart was shattered, and the brutal reality hit him like a slap in the face.

Arabella’s questioning gaze fell on Romeo, as if to ask: What’s up with your friend? Is he upset?

“Don’t worry about him.”

Romeo placed the remaining cups of coffee in front of Arabella, “These are the café’s latest blends. Try them and see which one you like best?”

He also laid out an assortment of delicate pastries in front of her, all for her to choose.

And he had thought, even if she had a boyfriend, that guy couldn’t possibly be as great as him; he was confident he could win her over.

After ordering his coffee, he didn’t know how he managed to carry his heavy heart towards them, sit opposite, and watch their affectionate interactions.

He took a few sips of the coffee, finding it tasteless, then stood up again, “I’m gonna check if Derrick has arrived.”

Arabella gave Romeo another look. This time, Romeo said, “I’ll go check on him.”

He got up and approached Timothy, who was still consumed by his mixed emotions.

“What’s up?”

As Romeo closed the distance, he could see the emotions Timothy struggled to hide in his eyes—a storm of unshed sorrow and disillusionment.

Suddenly, what Timothy confessed to him earlier flooded Romeo.