The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1930

"How on earth did you manage to make this?" Arabella looked up at Romeo, "Every New Year, Grannie Grace would make them for me. They were a symbol of togetherness, of everything ending perfectly. This tastes just like hers."

It was as if they were identical.

Everyone was caught off guard by this revelation, their gazes shifting to Romeo.

Romeo explained, "A few days ago, I got in touch with the old cook from the Murphy household. I asked her about the dishes that were traditionally served at Christmas and New Year dinner, and that's how I found out what Grace used to make for you."

His eyes softened as he continued, "Before she was hospitalized, she sensed something was wrong with her health. Back then, she handwrote several recipes for the cook, all your favorites. But after she was admitted to the hospital, under Olga's pressure, the cook was too scared to make any decent meals for you. That cookbook Grace had handwritten was tucked away. Thankfully, it wasn't thrown out. I managed to get my hands on that cookbook."

With that, Romeo handed Arabella a small black notebook.

As Arabella opened it, she saw Granny Grace's handwriting outlining each recipe's ingredients, measurements, and even her own preferences, detailed to a T.

Turning to the last pages, it was evident that Granny Grace's health had been declining - her writing became shaky, but she persisted in finishing the last recipe.

She even included notes on Arabella's tastes, reminding whoever was cooking to add a bit more of this, a little less of that.

Arabella's eyes glistened with unshed tears, touched by Granny Grace's behind-the-scenes efforts.

"This dish," Romeo said, "I made it on behalf of Grace. Her blessing for your New Year isn't just for the past; it will be with you every year to come. You should be happy in the new year. Everyone who cares about you wants to see you doing well."

"Absolutely, Romeo's right." Kenneth agreed, "Grace is always with us. Her love for you can't be expressed face to face, but Romeo has conveyed it through his food."

"Romeo, you're so thoughtful." Louisa's voice cracked slightly with tears, "Your dad is right. Grace has never left us. Her care for you has penetrated every aspect of life."