The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2028

Arabella looked up, and before her stood a woman who exuded confidence and sophistication -one from some wealthy family.

She was dressed in a chic suit in limited edition and sporting a stylish beret; the pearl necklace around her neck only accentuated her grace and allure.

No sooner had she arrived than she sat opposite Arabella, a smile of pride and superiority playing at her lips, "Let's talk."

Arabella's mind drew a blank; she had no recollection of such a character.

The woman introduced herself, "My name is Harriet Monroe. I'm Romeo's childhood sweetheart."

Arabella then remembered. Romeo had mentioned long ago that during the Earwood family's power struggle, Harriet, as the darling of the family, was said to have gone missing - a ruse to protect her from danger, while in reality, she had been sent to the safety of the McMillian family.

It just so happened that George and Jennifer were busy abroad at the time and couldn't stay home to look after her. Thus, for a brief period, it was only she and Romeo in the house. Her family's issues were quickly resolved, and she was taken back home soon after.

But during the tumult at her family's estate, Romeo was the one who gave her a sense of security. And with his good looks, it was no wonder Harriet fell for him.

Although Romeo had rejected her affections more than once, Harriet frequently messaged him. Considering she was a friend's sister and the Earwood family were allies of the McMillian family, Romeo hadn't blocked her, though he never responded.

"I didn't expect to bump into you here, so let's cut to the chase." Harriet pulled a check from her bag and slid it across the table to Arabella, "I want you to leave Romeo. Fill in any amount; the Earwood family can afford it."

"Ms. Monroe, are you trying to buy off the affection between Romeo and me with money?" Arabella's lips curled into a captivating smile.

With checks having a maximum limit, Harriet couldn't possibly cover the astronomical sum in question.

Harriet seethed.

"Bella's worth is countless times yours! It's not your place to flaunt wealth in front of her, you clown. Don’t you feel shameless? I recall Arabella mentioning last time you tried to seduce Romeo at McMillian Group and she set you straight. What, got over your bruised ego and ready to stir trouble again?"

"Cathy!" Harriet was livid, "What I do is none of your business, and you're not one to lecture me! Don't forget, some of your parents' projects were facilitated by our Earwood connections!"

"And what of it? They're not for me. I'll say it one last time - get out." Cathy dismissed her with ease, "If you dare go after Romeo and Arabella again, don't blame me for not being polite!"