The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1942

"Thanks, Romeo! And a million thanks, Bella!"

She was beside herself with excitement, her eyes brimming with gratitude as she looked at Arabella. Sure enough, whatever Arabella said was like a royal decree to her big brother.

Her sis-in-law was seriously something else!

"Bella! You're the best!" Cathy exclaimed, unable to contain herself as she rushed forward and hugged Arabella tightly. "From this moment on, you're my true sis-in-law, Cathy's own flesh and blood. No one else comes close! Nobody's gonna mess with you on my watch!"

"Sure are quick to claim family," Romeo remarked with a hint of sarcasm.

"Well, you're my big brother, and she's my sis-in-law. We're all part of the McMillian family. It's only right I acknowledge that, isn't it?"

Romeo was at a loss for words, not expecting Cathy to be so eager to strengthen their ties.

"Bella, I owe you a dinner!" Cathy whispered to Arabella, then announced more formally, "Hey, let me add you on WhatsApp, okay?"

"Nice try," Romeo interjected, pulling Arabella into his arms protectively. "Don't think you can start paving the way for future favors."

How did he know she wanted to keep a line open to invite Arabella for dinner later? She had indeed wanted to leave a contact option for future outings.

Arabella took out her phone and opened her WhatsApp.

"Don't give it to her."

Just as Romeo tried to block the QR code, Cathy swiftly scanned it and dashed away, promptly adding Arabella as a contact.

Romeo was left dumbfounded.

"Bella, I'm gonna pull you into our sibling chat and the family group," Cathy announced, adding Arabella to their tight-knit group chats, including the extended family one.