The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2001

"Ms. Monroe's back in town," the assistant whispered with a note of urgency, "and she's brought a surprise for Mr. Romeo—came in carrying a lunchbox and no one could stop her."

"What's she doing here?" Luna frowned, her tone souring by the second.

Then she reassured Alice, "If you are hurt, take care of it. You don't have to worry about your shift today; I'll let my brother know."

"Thanks a bunch, Ms. Luna!" Alice gushed, relief washing over her.

Upstairs, Harriet strode in, lunchbox in hand, when Carl spotted her. "Ms. Monroe, you're back? What brings you here?"

"Where's Romeo?"

"The boss is tied up in a meeting. Not on this floor."

"I'll wait in his office, then."

But as she made for Romeo's door, Carl stepped in front, "I'm real sorry, but could you hang tight for just a moment?"

Harriet barely moved to sidestep him when she was halted by a familiar voice.

"Surely you're not about to bowl over Carl, too?" Luna emerged from the elevator, every inch the heiress, oozing with poise and grace.

"Ms. Luna!" Carl almost sighed in relief.

"Luna? What are you doing here?" Harriet bristled at the sight of her.

"Why can't I be here? I'm Romeo's cousin, for crying out loud. And who exactly do you think you are?"

With that, she tried to storm into Romeo's office, but Luna was quick to push her back, still looking out for Carl.

"Carl, do me a favor and double-check my brother's schedule for today. Don't miss a beat."

"Of course." Carl suppressed a chuckle, knowing full well Luna was looking to handle Harriet without any 'witnesses' that could later be hassled.

"Carl, she just pushed me. Did you see it?"

"Sorry, Ms. Monroe, I must've missed it. Turned away for a second and all."

Harriet realized she was outnumbered and her blood boiled even hotter.

"Are you leaving or not?" Luna's patience had run thin as she pushed Harriet towards the exit. "My brother doesn't want what's thrown at his doorstep! Any woman with an ounce of dignity would leave now. Or I'll call Bart myself and let him know you're trying to undermine Arabella—right here on our turf!"