The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2043

"Did you grab breakfast yet?" Clark teased, slinging an arm affectionately over his sister's shoulder. "There's a diner just around the corner, let's grab a bite."

"I ate before I came over, Clark. How about you?"

"I did. When I was heading out, I’ve got a bagel to eat on the way."

"I got one too."

They chatted as they walked, and when they reached the 22nd floor, they were surprised not only to find their grandparents and parents but also their other brothers who had made the trip.

"Why the family gathering." Bernard chuckled, touched by the concern of his grandchildren. It seemed he'd have to be more explicit next time to avoid such a stir.

"Why are you and Bella here together? Get your arm off her this instant!" David stepped forward upon seeing Clark's arm around Bella's shoulders, "You're crowding her, she's not comfortable."

"I think you're just jealous." Clark refused to let go, instead pulling her in closer with a mischievous grin. "You guys hog her all the time, and I never say a word. Finally got my chance to bond, right?"

"Fine, bond all you want, but do you have to be so handsy." David pried his hand away with a smile, turning to his sister, "Bella, did you have breakfast yet?"

Chasel stepped in, "If not, I can go grab something for you."

Hans added, "Or should I take you down for a snack?"

"How would you know Bella's tastes? I'll go." Sean stepped forward and affectionately ruffled Arabella' hair. "I will treat you."

Throughout the conversation, Arabella couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. She glanced up to find Serena sitting in an ICU bed, staring in their direction.

Clark caught Arabella's gaze and followed it, just as surprised to find Serena here.

Serena's caretaker, Dora, was also taken aback, her hand frozen mid-air with the medication for Serena. She hadn't expected the Collins family to show up en masse.

It was clear they weren't here for Serena. From their conversation, it seemed they were visiting the hospital after making a donation of equipment.

"Some of the equipment you donated has been set up in the OR, and some is already in use in the ICU wards, like this one right here." Dr. Pierce was about to use one of the machines as an example when his eyes landed on the figure in the bed.

He had no idea Serena was a patient in his own hospital, and he paused, taken aback.