The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 457

Chapter 457 

“You really hit the jackpot with a generous one, didn’t you? She donated all the compensation money you gave her. By now, you should realize there’s always someone out there who’s stronger than you.” 

Beverly paused a moment before adding, “Your cousin saw the whole thing; lucky for us, we’re family, and she didn’t laugh at you. But if you mess up again, I’m freezing your bank account!” 

“I get it,” Alma mumbled, looking at Arabella with clear resentment. 

Serena watched the scene and couldn’t help but feel a rush of satisfaction. 

“Since this is just a minor hiccup, let’s leave it in the past,” Lucas said, trying to lighten the mood. “Bella just got off work; she must be hungry. Lina, ring the bell for the waiter to serve the dishes.” 

“Okay,” Lina said, pressing the button with an awkward look. She hadn’t expected things to play out like this. 

Alma muttered, “Off work?” 

She couldn’t believe her young cousin, who seemed to be only seventeen or eighteen, was already working. 

Hearing her, Beverly took the opportunity to encourage her. “Your cousin took over a fashion company under our corporate umbrella as soon as she got home, and she’s doing an amazing job. You should learn from her!” 

Alma was surprised to learn that the person who had been causing a stir at the fashion company was her cousin, not some high–ranking executive. Turned out the girl was quite capable! 

“Your cousin aced her college entrance exam. She’s not only good at academics; she’s competent and beautiful.” Beverly couldn’t stop praising Arabella. “Lina, hold on; we’re not all here yet,” Kenneth Collins said, seeing Lina about to ring the bell. 

Everyone was curious, who else was coming? 

“David’s been home recently; he’ll be here soon, as will Romeo.” 

“Romeo’s coming?” Beverly was surprised; her face relaxed instantly. “Romeo rarely attends such events.” 

“He’s dating Bella.” Kenneth had barely finished speaking when there was a knock at the door. 

“Bella, it must be Romeo; go check!” 

As Arabella stood up, Beverly masked her emotions with a smile and quickly noted the shoes Arabella was wearing, a pair of QY private custom ones, worth about two hundred thousand dollars. She quickly understood everything and gave Alma a stern look. 

Alma lowered her head; her breathing became lighter. She didn’t expect her mother to figure things out so quickly. 

As Arabella opened the door, Romeo McMillian was standing there, looking very formal and handsome, giving off a meeting–the–parents vibe. 

“I was held up; sorry for being late,” Romeo said affectionately to Arabella. “Are your parents here?”