The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1946

"I gotta say, they're a hoot to hang out with," Arabella said with a playful smile. "Especially Cathy, she's just a darling and a real firecracker."

"Just wait until she gets into trouble and you're left holding the bag," Romeo grumbled, smoothly turning the steering wheel as the car veered onto the next street.

Arabella chuckled lightly, "Sounds like she's given you a run for your money in the past."

"Trouble? She's a one-woman wrecking crew." Visions of Cathy's mischievous escapades over the years played through Romeo's mind. "Her parents couldn't rein her in, so it all fell to me. Once they saw I had some sway, even Jeffery and Luna stepped back. Any problem, they came straight to me."

"No wonder you guys are thick as thieves," Arabella laughed. "It's rare to see cousins bond like siblings."

"Is it, though?" Romeo shot her a glance and asked.

"Absolutely. It's clear as day that they look up to you. And in your heart, you see them as your little siblings, too. Your bond is just like that of real brothers and sisters."

"You've been smiling a lot tonight," Romeo observed, his own heart warming at her laughter. "Back when you were with the Murphys, you hardly ever did. But since you've returned to the Collins family, you've been all smiles."

"Maybe I've changed," Arabella mused, also aware of her transformation. "Feels like I've suddenly got a soft spot, yet at the same time, a suit of armor."

The conversation flowed between them until the car pulled up in front of Reflections Villa.

"Here they come! That's Romeo's ride! Romeo's bringing Bella home!" Louisa exclaimed, glued to the surveillance screen. "When do we set off the fireworks? Now, or when Bella steps in?"

Behind her, a small crowd had gathered—ten adults, five men, and Alma.

"The moment those fireworks go off, we all rush out and surprise her, wish her a Happy New Year," Chasel suggested.