The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2020

"Martin's not here, so you can drop the act." Florence towered over her with an air of superiority, "I want you away from my son. Pack your things and get out of this house."

Serena stared back at the woman before her, a sense of familiarity washing over her. It clicked, "You're the lady from Dawnstar."

Back then, she hadn't known who the woman was, so she'd been curt and dismissive. And now, fate had a wicked sense of humor - the woman was Martin's mother.

She had made a terrible first impression without even realizing it.

"Since you remember, you should know the Cooper family won't accept someone who is disrespectful, self-centered, malevolent, and two-faced into our family. Take the clothes and jewelry Martin gave you, but from now on, you're forbidden to come anywhere near my son!"

Florence declared her ultimatum and settled onto the couch with her daughter, waiting for Serena to leave.

Serena's inner fury brought a sardonic smile to her lips, but she kept up a gentle façade, "Dora, would you fetch us some tea and pastries?"

Dora nodded and was about to step away when Florence interjected, her voice airy and dismissive, "My staff doesn't take orders from you. Dora, two cups of coffee, please. It's time to cool off."

"Yes, ma'am," Dora hurriedly bowed and retreated from the explosive situation.

Serena pressed a button on her wheelchair, facing the matriarch head-on.