The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2021

At that moment, Serena watched as Dora approached with two steaming cups of coffee, while June followed close behind with a platter of pastries.

She flashed a warm, polite smile, "Mrs. Cooper, Ms. Cooper, please have some coffee and snacks to start."

Dora had just set the coffee in front of Florence when, in a fit of rage, Florence slapped the cup away. The scalding liquid flew toward Serena, soaking her clothes. Dora was petrified with fear.

"Serena," she rushed over, frantically dabbing away the stains with napkins.

"It's fine, just go on, both of you."

It was the dead of winter, and Serena was bundled up in thick clothing that easily shrugged off the coffee's heat, leaving her with nothing more than a wet garment.

Yet, she feigned a look of helpless pain, as if scalded, sending the maids away in a grand gesture of protecting the innocent. Alone, she would face the wrath.

Bowing, the maids had no choice but to retreat.

"Stop with the theatrics." Florence snapped, seeing right through her, "With all those layers, you think you're burned? Just tell me how much money you want. Pack up and leave today, cut ties with my son, and name your price."

"Mrs. Cooper, my relationship with Martin isn't about money." Serena's eyes filled with crystalline tears as she spotted the maids secretly recording the scene, "I truly love him. I want to be with him, to never part."

"Spare me your pathetic act. I feel sick just looking at you! You talk of love with that mouth? Don't tarnish such a sacred word! You're with Martin to further your own selfish ends, a selfish, conscienceless, ungrateful liar! We've made it clear we don't like you, and yet you have the audacity to stay? Are you trying to ruin my son before you're satisfied?"