The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2102

"How did you get the people to help you? And where did you get the money?"

When Martin posed the question, Serena couldn't even muster the courage to meet his gaze. "It was all left to me by my father before he passed. Both the people and the money."

Even though Martin had suspected her all along, hearing the words fall from her lips and seeing the guilt etched across her face tore through him like a jagged blade.

Tears spilled from his eyes once again, his composure crumbling. He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to hold back the volcanic surge of emotion, but it was no use. With frustration lacing his tone, he pressed, "Is it really you?"

Serena was taken aback by his reaction. What did he mean? Did he have no actual proof and had all this been a ploy to trap her into a confession?

Had she been played?

The sound of a recording echoed in the room as Fitch played back her own words from his phone.

"You two?" Serena's eyes darted between Martin and Fitch, reeling from the realization that they had teamed up to trick her into spilling her secrets.

But now she had to swallow her pride; she couldn't lash out.

After all, Martin was her rock, her lifeline. If she lost him, she'd be left with nothing.

"Martin." Serena reached out to touch his hand.

"Don't you dare," Martin's heart shattered into a million pieces, his voice now ragged with grief and betrayal, "How could you be so cruel"

"Mr. Cooper, Ms. Cooper's condition is deteriorating rapidly. The doctors have issued a critical notice, and I'm afraid she may not have more than a couple of hours. Please sign here and brace yourself for the worst."

Clutching the critical notice from the nurse, Martin seemed to find a new strength, no longer appearing as helpless and frightened as before.

He knew Arabella was on the same floor, and after saving his mother, she would surely find a way to save his sister.

So he replied with a steady voice, "I'll sign it later."

The nurse looked puzzled. Why did Mr. Cooper seem so calm, almost indifferent? It was such a stark contrast to the concern he had shown for Florence.

Could it be that he wasn't close with his sister?