The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1858

"It’s delicious," Ophelia cooed, delicately nibbling on a pastry, her every move embodying a charm that Sean found unexpectedly adorable.

"Sean, have a bite yourself," Arabella interjected, playfully snapping him out of his reverie.

It was impolite to stare at a girl for too long.

Realizing his lapse, Sean quickly diverted his gaze and grabbed a pastry at random, stuffing it into his mouth. "Not bad," he mumbled.

Ophelia's expression soured at his choice.

"The one thing Ophelia can't stand is pineapple," Arabella revealed, making Sean's chewing come to an awkward halt. The pastry in his mouth had a pineapple filling!

"If you like it, you should have more," Arabella quipped with a teasing tone, prompting Sean to swallow the pineapple pastry in a hurry. "No, no, on second thought, it's not as good as that strawberry cupcake we shared last time. It lacks that certain something."

His buddies couldn't help but smirk at his rapid backpedaling.

"Bella, Hans, Clark, grab some, will you?" Ophelia offered, extending the plate towards them.

Arabella picked one, and the other guys followed suit.

Sean watched them with puppy eyes, berating himself for not waiting—what a missed opportunity for a girl to serve him.

"Pastry from Ophelia's hands tastes even sweeter," Clark commented light-heartedly, eating his piece and throwing Sean a teasing glance.

"And Ophelia, do you have a special someone yet? If not, I'd be glad to set you up," Chasel chimed in with a wink.

"No need, Chasel, I'm focused on my career right now. Love isn't on the menu at the moment," Ophelia graciously declined.

Conversing with the guys was somehow easier than dealing with Sean.

"What's your type, though? I know plenty of eligible bachelors. We could keep an eye out for you," Hans joked, with a tone that was unusually playful for him. "Surely not the self-centered, moody, and flaky type, right?"

"Of course, your brothers are also outstanding talents," Ophelia quickly added, fearing she had praised Bella’s fiancé without equally complimenting the others, sincerely listing their attributes.

"Hans is distinguished, mature, and modest, with superior conversation, cultivation, and insight."

"Chasel is handsome and courteous, with a dignified presence and strong leadership qualities."

"Clark is dashing and humorous, with a heart full of love and well-rounded talents."

"Whoever ends up with you guys is sure to be lucky."

"Ophelia, you're too kind!" Clark burst out laughing. "I'll go to bed smiling tonight."

"It's a real joy to receive such high praise from you," Chasel agreed, visibly pleased.