The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2016

Martin was no match for the moment; he tangled with Serena's lips, ferocious and fiery.

After giving him a taste of sweetness, Serena shyly pushed him away.

Desire still smoldered in Martin's eyes. He rasped, his voice husky as he looked at the demure girl wearing a blissful smile, "Are you serious?"

A flicker of disappointment and hurt crossed Serena's eyes, "So my big confession just now fell flat? You don’t believe me? You think I'm just toying with you? Or do you despise me because I'm in a wheelchair, thinking I'm an embarrassment. If that's the case, just pretend I never said a thing. Let me down, please."

Her words were cut short as he silenced her with a kiss.

After a long, passionate moment, Martin gazed at her with excitement and joy he couldn't contain, his smile unstoppable, "Alright, let's get engaged. But it should be me asking you. Give me a bit of time, I'll organize something special tonight."

"No need," Serena quickly interjected, "I don't care about the formalities. I just want to settle down, be with someone I love. No matter how many great guys are out there, no matter what the world says or thinks, as long as we’re happy together for the rest of our lives, that's enough for me."

As she spoke, Serena's eyes sparkled with anticipation and sweetness, "I even want to have two kids with you, a boy and a girl."

Moved and elated, Martin watched her, "I'm glad you feel this way. Serena, you've changed, you love me even more."

"But," Serena hesitated again, "I'm afraid your family won't accept me. I don't want to cause you trouble."