SWNOVELS Chapter 1221-1240
Chapter 1221
Why hadn’t she realized the family’s bias before?
At this moment, Martha knocked on her door, not waiting for her consent, she
pushed the door open impatiently.
“Serena, I’m sorry I’m late.”
Martha saw the girl sitting on the bed, her eyes red and swollen from crying, and
her heart ached. “Il had the day off today. Remember, you said the bakery items
at Tranquil Haven Cafe were delicious, so I queued up for three hours just to
buy some for you. But when I got home, that wicked witch wouldn’t let me bring
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them in. She said Hans had punished you by making you reflect on your actions
in your room.”
This wicked witch was none other than Edith.
Seeing the panting Martha who had rushed over, caring about her, the last
defense in Serena’s heart broke, and she cried even harder.
“Serena, don’t cry.” Martha was at a loss for words to comfort her.
Serena had never cried out loud like this before, even the vigilant Edith standing
outside the door could hear her clearly.
Seeing her crying her heart out, all Martha could do was to hand her some
tissues and wait for her to stop crying before wiping her tears.
“Martha” Serena lifted her swollen eyes and asked in a hoarse voice, “Do you
still remember, long time ago, when Hans invited me to the observation deck to
chat?”
“Of course, I remember.” Martha said while bending down to help her wipe her
tears, “Hans said, it was normal for everyone to be concerned about Arabella’s
feelings as she had just returned home. You might have misunderstood that
everyone was treating you differently than before. But in everyone’s eyes, you
were still a part of this home, nothing had changed”
Serena didn’t expect Martha to remember so clearly. Tears fell again. At that
time, Hans spoke so sincerely, she believed him.
Looking back now, she was really naive, too naive!
“Hans also asked you then, how your parents and brothers have been treating
you over the years. He said that what they gave to Arabella was what you had
for the past eighteen years! This was originally Arabella’s home.
Arabella was supposed to come back and enjoy the life that should have
belonged to her.”
When Serena heard this, her tears fell, and she gave a tragic smile.
“He also said that Arabella was the real daughter of the Collins family, they
should be kind to her. As her brother, he should pamper and cherish her,
especially after she had suffered outside for eighteen years. Her future life
should be doubly compensated. You even explained that you had no animosity
towards Arabella, but Hans cut you off, saying that he could tell how much
animosity you had”
Serena’s smile became even more bitter and sorrowful.
Yeah, since then, Hans had stopped trusting her, stopped listening to her
explanations, only believing what he saw.
“Hans said that even if Arabella returned home, the affection they have shown
you over these eighteen years was not fake. You could still stay, like before, buy
whatever you wanted, do whatever you wanted, no one would restrict you, or
treat you differently.”
Serena’s laughter was filled with tears.
“Hans also said that Arabella held no animosity towards you. Sometimes it was
you who were unreasonable first, but Arabella was always tolerant, happy to
have such a sister. He also said something like, Arabella accepted you for the
sake of the parents and brothers, and it gave you an opportunity to be envious
of her, to hurt her. If she had firmly refused to let you stay in this home from the
beginning, have you ever thought about what your fate would be?”
Serena laughed heartbreakingly for a while before saying, “Martha, you told me
then that Hans was indirectly warning me that if I didn’t get along well with
Arabella, I would have to leave home. At that time, I didn’t believe your words, I
thought Hans was right. I must have been hit on the head!”
At that time, she doubted herself, feeling that this home indeed didn’t belong to
her. The love of her parents and brothers, the luxurious lifestyle, the servants’
attention, all didn’t belong to her. She had enjoyed Arabella’s life for eighteen
years.
But now she realized that Martha was right. It was the fault of her parents for
confusing the children. How could she be blamed? She also lost eighteen years
of life being loved by her biological parents, she also suffered losses!
“It’s all my fault. I didn’t listen to you. I thought if I treated Arabella as my real
sister, they would treat me as beforeChapter 1222
“Absolutely not!” Martha sympathized, “Have you forgotten? Last time, you were
fooled by just a few words from Hans. You naively thought they would treat
everyone equally. If Hans really saw you as his sister, he wouldn’t have warned
you like that, let alone lock you up like he did today.”
Serena let out a sorrowful laugh. If anyone knew that she had been locked in
her room by Hans for self-reflection.
The word would spread, and it would be so humiliating.
“Last time, I told you to take advantage of their affection for you. Either kick
Arabella out of the Collins family, or strive for the maximum benefits within the
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family, or marry Mr. McMillian and become the most glamorous woman in the
world. But you chose none of these paths. Instead, you came up with the most
useless one – to build a good relationship with Arabella and please everyone in
the Collins family.”
Only now did Serena realize how foolish she had been, thinking she could be
real sisters with Arabella.
“If I had listened to you earlier, things wouldn’t have escalated to this point. I was
the one who couldn’t let go, always holding onto a shred of illusion, always
feeling that Hans and the others could really be impartial.”
“Ah, if they were truly fair, before Hans asked you to talk on the terrace, they
wouldn’t have planted her favorite flowers on Bella’s balcony”
That was not something Hans would do!
If he was really fair, why did Arabella have flowers, and Serena didn’t?
Everything that he had given Arabella, like planting flowers, gifting a four-leaf
clover necklace, were things that Serena had never owned.
Serena didn’t know how long she had been crying. For the first time, she
realized that her tears seemed endless.
Her heart was truly broken, and she was in despair.
“You can tell she was raised in a small family, inexperienced in the world. Even
after returning to the richest family, her poor taste has not changed! Every time I
see the marigold flowers swaying in the wind on her balcony, I feel that she
lacks refinement, is superficial, and cannot hold her own in society! Her taste
has brought down the standard of the Collins family’s prestigious garden!”
Serena thought the same. Out of all the flowers, why did she have to like
marigold, such a common plant.
After Serena calmed down a bit, Martha gave her some advice.
“Serena, there are many online platforms that buy luxury goods at high prices.
You have a whole closet full of clothes, shoes, and bags, many of them still with
tags. I calculated it, and you could sell them for at least a million dollars.”
Some of the dresses worth tens of thousands of dollars, Serena wore only once.
Some of the limited edition handbags, worth eighty or so thousand dollars,
Serena carried once and then let them gather dust in her closet.
“If you really marry Mr. Cooper in the future, and have a chauffeur to drive you
around, there’s no point in keeping all those luxury cars. You might as well sell
them all.”
If she sold all of them, she could get one or two million dollars. And that was just
from the cars!
“And all the jewelry you’ve received since you were young.”
That was worth a lot.
Just the pink sapphire necklace she received on her birth year was now worth
over two hundred thousand dollars.
If she kept a few pieces of jewelry as her dowry and sold the rest, she could
easily make a few million dollars.
“My initial estimate is that if you sell everything, you could make around six
million dollars.”
Serena was surprised that Martha knew her assets better than she did. She had
never paid attention to how much these things were worthChapter 1223
“Serena, not to rain on your parade, but if Hans is capable of doing this, who
knows if he might kick you out someday? Instead of leaving penniless, it might
be better to start selling some stuff now.
She had at least sixty million dollars in the bank, plus her real estate like houses
and stores. Her personal assets could easily surpass a hundred million dollars.
“Of course, this is the worst-case scenario. If Hans forgives you and you stay in
this family, until the day you marry Mr. Cooper, you can earn more. Your parents
once mentioned that your wedding gift would be more than Brooklyn’s sister. If it
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reaches around a hundred million, your net worth would jump to two hundred
million!”
How many heiresses could boast of such fortune?
“And if Mr. Cooper gives you more money and shares as a wedding gift, imagine
the wealth you’d amass.”
It was unimaginable!
Hearing Martha’s words, Serena’s tears welled up in her eyes, forgotten to fall.
She had never realized her assets could amount to so much.
“So the goal now is to find a way to stay in the Collins family, keeping your
parents happy and willing to spend money on you. Later, we can sell these
things, every penny counts.”
Serena used to think Martha’s idea was wrong, as these were heartfelt gifts from
her family. But after Hans’ coldness, she finally nodded, “After this storm
passes, you can help me handle this. But be cautious.”
“Serena, don’t worry! Leave it all to me, act as if you don’t know anything. If we
get caught, I’ll take the fall,”
Martha spoke, looking at her with a hint of pity, “But for now, you’ll have to
swallow your pride. I know you’ve never had to do this.”
Serena’s eyes reddened, and her nose stung, “If they are heartless, they can’t
blame me for being ruthless!”
Swallowing her pride was only temporary.
Even if she had to leave, she would take all the benefits and ruin Arabella first!
Martha was overjoyed seeing Serena’s change of heart, but she kept her
excitement concealed.
“They treasure Arabella because she’s talented and their own daughter. In the
end, it’s all Arabella’s fault. If she had spoken up for you when Hans was
blaming you, things could have been different.”
Serena chuckled coldly. Arabella standing up for her? It would be a miracle if
she didn’t add insult to injury!
Martha was right. It was all Arabella’s fault. If Arabella was more amicable, they
could at least be sisters!
Even ordinary sisterhood would be better than being enemies!
“Hans will be traveling abroad soon. The Temple family lost a child, and your
parents will be visiting there often.
The opportunity to deal with that brat is coming.”
Did the Collins family think Arabella was so great?
If they could find out that Arabella also had flaws, or irreparable stains.
“But if something happens to Arabella, Hans will suspect us first”
If those luxury goods hadn’t been sold yet, and Hans kicked her out.
“We’re not trying to kill her, just teach her a lesson. I’ll find someone to do it
seamlessly. Without evidence, Hans can’t blame us, can he?”Chapter 1224
“Listen, if Hans ever finds a way to pin this on us, I’ll take the fall. I’ll say it was
all my idea, and that you had nothing to do with it”
Serena had never expected such loyalty from a servant. It was as if Martha was
more of a family than her own kin, and the realization moved her.
“With me by your side, Serena, I’ll make sure Arabella understands the
consequences of crossing you!” Martha’s eyes flashed with a hard edge at the
mention of Arabella.
“Oh, and another thing. If you ever run into Arabella when there aren’t any
others around, don’t feel the need to be polite.” Martha advised.
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Arabella had taken their kindness for granted in the past. Well, she wouldn’t
blame them if they showed no mercy from now on!
“Don’t worry, Martha. I won’t be polite to her anymore.” Serena seemed to have
made a decision, her eyes filled with a vengeful light.
Meanwhile, Louisa woke up with a start from a nightmare.
Sitting up in her bed, heart still pounding, she glanced at the clock to find it was
already evening. She quickly changed and prepared to head out.
“Ma’am, where are you off to? Dinner’s almost ready.” a servant tried to
persuade her in the living room.
“I’m not hungry. Louisa replied, wrapping a scarf around her neck. “By the way,
did you invite Serena’s friends to stay for dinner?”
“They’ve left.”
“They left?” Louisa was surprised, wondering why they hadn’t stayed for a meal.
The servant hesitated, wanting to mention the argument that seemed to have
taken place between Serena’s friends that afternoon.
Serena had returned to her room crying.
But before the servant could explain, Louisa’s phone rang.
“Hello, honey? I’m about to head out. What? Celeste fainted? I’ll be right there.”
Seeing Louisa rush out the door, the servant said nothing more.
Elsewhere, Hans was driving back to the office, his mind wandering back to a
memory of a little girl falling in the garden years ago. She had scraped her knee
badly and was clearly in pain, but she still managed to put on a brave face to
keep everyone else from worrying.
Back then, Serena was so considerate and caring, like a warm little blanket that
brought comfort and joy.
When did that change?
Was it when Arabella returned home?
Or was it when Arabella started to shine?
He remembered the first time he saw Arabella. She was assisting Molly at a
design competition, her right wrist bruised and swollen, clearly injured, yet she
had managed to embroider a beautiful rose onto a dress with that hand.
The head of the Fashion Designers Association of Solterra, Flora, was one of
the judges. She accidentally let slip that Arabella was the founder of QY.
Despite her young age, Arabella had founded a company, managed family
businesses, and despite her position, was willing to assist and nurture the next
generation.
This kind of spirit and vision surpassed many.
Through their interactions, he saw more of her brilliance.
Though he didn’t want to compare Arabella with Serena, there was a clear
difference in their attitudes and how they handled situations.Chapter 1225
On the other side of town.
When Arabella saw Romeo off at the gate of their villa, Romeo gave her a
gentle pat on her head, “I’m sorry for the trouble.”
“It’s okay.”
She wasn’t going to be hurt by Serena’s small schemes.
“There’s something I haven’t told you.” Romeo started, his gaze locked with
Arabella’s, “Hans reached out to me on Christmas Eve”
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This surprised Arabella, as Hans didn’t seem like the type to take the initiative to
communicate.
“The family has been discussing revealing your true identity to the world in less
than a month. So Clark and I want to deal with the external forces as soon as
possible, so that everyone will know that you are the true Collins family heiress.”
What he didn’t expect was Serena’s attempt to tarnish Arabella’s reputation with
outrageous lies.
A smirk played on Arabella’s lips, “So, they were planning to surprise me, but
you spoiled the surprise?”
“Hans should tell you about this tonight.” Romeo patted her head again,
“Everyone wants to reveal your identity as soon as possible, but due to various
reasons, we’ve let her have her way.”
“I’s okay. Whether it’s revealed or not, it doesn’t matter to me.” Arabella smiled,
“Don’t worry about me. Go home and be careful on the road.”
“If she tries any tricks, remember to tell me.”
“Don’t worry. Can’t I handle her?” Arabella laughed, clearly not considering
Serena a threat at all.
“Tomorrow the Temple family might hold a funeral. I’ll pick you up then.”
“Okay.
After Romeo left, Arabella returned to Reflections Villa.
She ate, drank, and returned to her room to work. She needed to make time to
attend Crystal’s funeral and check on her grandfather’s health.
On the other side.
Upon hearing the news, Martha rushed to Serena, “Serena, that damn girl ate
two bowls of pasta tonight! Even a pig can’t eat as much as she does! While
you’re here starving and suffering, she’s eating and sleeping well!”
“lL expected as much.” Serena laid in bed weakly, “The more miserable I am,
the happier she is.”
Just because Arabella had Hans’s support for now, what was there to be proud
of?
“Serena, how are you feeling now?” Martha asked with concern.
Serena was as white as a sheet, her lips void of color. In hopes of gaining
Hans’s forgiveness, she had soaked in a cold bath for a full hour!
Upon hearing the beep of the thermometer, Martha quickly checked it, “Oh my
god, Serena, you have a fever of 102 Fahrenheit! I’ll get you a cooling patch.”
“Martha.” Serena stopped her weakly, “If you use it now, it’ll all be for nothing.
Call Hans and ask when he’s coming back.”
“Right, right.” Martha hadn’t thought Serena would still be so calm even when
she was sick. She had really changed!
As Martha reached for her phone, Serena’s vision began to blur until she
passed out.
“Hello Hans, when will you be home? It’s already eight. It’s Serena.”
Before Martha could finish, Hans coldly interrupted her, “Let her wait.”
“But Serena can’t wait! She’s sick, with a fever of 102 Fahrenheit! Her face is
pale. She’s been crying all afternoon. She might have gotten sick from crying so
hard.”
Hans’s gaze flickered with complexity.
“Please, Hans, come home soon.” Martha’s voice was filled with tears, “Serena
hasn’t eaten anything till now and she’s burning up with fever.”Chapter 1226
“Alright.” Hans hung up without saying whether he’d be coming home or not.
Martha was frantic, locking at Serena unconscious on the bed, her temperature
already spiking at 102.6 Fahrenheit.
She opened the door and called out to Edith, who was standing by the entrance.
“Serena’s running a fever, go grab some fever patches. Also, get the kitchen to
make something she likes.”
“Are you ordering me around?”
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“What do you mean?” Martha put on a haughty air. “Serena’s sick, isn’t it your
job as a servant to take care of her?”
“Why don’t you?”
“I need to stay here and look after Serena!”
Edith stood in place, giving a cold laugh. “Serena hasn’t apologized to Ms. Bella
yet.”
“What did you say?”
“Hans said not to feed her until she shows remorse. If you want a fever patch,
you can go get it yourself. My job is to stand here “Edith, are you taking me for a
fool?” Martha bristled with rage. “Who do you think you are?”
“I’m just a humble servant.’ Edith met her gaze, unflinching. “Just like you.”
Martha was furious. “Just you wait!”
As Martha stormed out, she deliberately bumped into Edith. Unfazed, Edith
stuck out a foot to trip her up.
“Once Serena wakes up, I’ll tell her everything that happened today!”
“You talk as if you have a lady backing you!” Edith wasn’t afraid of her, instead,
she gave a snort and continued to stand guard at the door.
Martha’s eyes flashed with a murderous intent, but she swallowed her anger for
the moment.
After what felt like forever, Martha heard footsteps approaching and quickly
stuck the fever patch onto Serena’s forehead.
Upon hearing the knock, Martha ran to the door, tears streaming down her face.
“Oh Hans, thank goodness you’re back! Serena’s fever won’t break. I’ve been so
worried! Before she passed out, she kept saying she was sorry, admitting she
was wrong.”
Hans looked at the unconscious girl on the bed. Her cheeks were flushed like
ripe apples, and it didn’t seem like she was faking it.
“Did you call a doctor?” Hans asked.
Through her tears, Martha exclaimed, “Edith wouldn’t even give us a fever
patch, she made everything difficult! I had to go get it myself. Let alone calling a
doctor, we’re lucky to even have this fever patch!”
Edith, standing by the door, heard Martha twisting the facts and was about to
retort.
Martha started to cry harder. “Serena’s so sick and there’s no doctor to see her.
She hasn’t had a bite to eat since noon. She’s never known such hardship! She
kept saying she was wrong, that she wanted to apologize to you and Ms. Bella
when you got back. But she couldn’t hold on.”
Before Hans could respond, Martha fell to her knees.
“Hans, I beg you, for the sake of your sibling bond, please allow a doctor to see
Serena. I’m really afraid for her life. She’s been running a high fever for so long!
Please let the kitchen prepare some hot porridge for her? I beg you.”
Seeing this woman in her fifties kneeling on the floor, crying and pleading, Hans
was moved.
Looking at the girl on the bed, he was reminded of years ago when she was
sick, how the whole family would gather around her, caring and fussing.Chapter 1227
“Go fetch the doctor.”
When Martha heard Hans’s command, her bowing motion abruptly froze in
surprise. Overjoyed, she exclaimed, “Thank you, Hans, thank you! I’ll call Dr.
Lee right away.”
When Dr. Lee arrived, Martha, with tears in her eyes, said excitedly, “Serena,
Dr. Lee is here. You’re going to be fine. Hans is here to see you too.”
While Dr. Lee was examining the girl on the bed, Martha feared the doctor
would discover Serena’s fever was due to a common cold caught from getting
chilled. So, she concocted a story.
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“Serena got her heart broken. She cried from afternoon till night. Then she just
developed a fever.”
Dr. Lee nodded, “Crying can raise the body temperature, making the body feel
hot, but after a while, once the emotions stabilize, the body temperature will
gradually return to normal.”
“But Serena’s been having a fever for a while now, and there’s no sign of her
temperature going down.”
“She caught a cold.”
Upon hearing this, Martha felt a sudden pang in her heart. She hadn’t expected
Dr. Lee to figure it out!
Feigning ignorance, she asked, “Can crying for too long also cause a fever?”
“Well” Dr. Lee paused his examination and looked at her, “Crying for a long time
can lead to a weakened immune system, making one susceptible to catching a
cold. If you’re exposed to cold wind or rain during this time, you can easily get
sick.”
“She was fine in the afternoon,’ Hans added.
Martha, worried that Serena’s cold bath would be suspected, quickly interjected,
“Oh, I remember now. Serena cried for a long time in the afternoon, and no
amount of comforting helped. In the end, she went to the balcony to get some
fresh air. Maybe she caught a chill then.”
Dr. Lee nodded understandingly, “That’s possible.”
“Serena mentioned how last winter, the family gathered around the fireplace for
hot chocolate, and the winter before that.”
Martha intentionally stopped there, noticing Hans seerned to be reminiscing
about old times. She felt a sense of relief, knowing that it would work.
“Take some medicine. If it’s above 101.3 Fahrenheit, a fever patch won’t work.”
Dr. Lee finished his diagnosis and prescribed some medication to Martha.
Martha thanked him repeatedly. After seeing Dr. Lee off, she fed Serena the
medicine.
“Could you step outside for a moment?”
After she finished giving Serena her medicine, Hans suddenly spoke.
Martha felt a sense of dread but followed Hans onto the balcony.
Hans’s gaze was intimidating no matter who he looked at. Now, he looked at
Martha and asked, “You’ve been in this family for many years. There are some
things I’m going to ask outright.”
“Feel free to ask, Hans,” Martha replied respectfully, “As long as I know, I’ll tell
you everything.”
“Then tell me, what kind of person is Serena?”
“Serena’s virtues are endless! She’s kind-hearted, innocent, graceful, cheerful,
beautiful, brave, considerate, talented in music, chess, poetry, painting”
“And how can such a person suddenly become narrow-minded, cunning, and
scheming?”
Upon hearing this, Martha realized Hans’s concerns and quickly explained, “Mr.
Collins, I’ve never encouraged Serena to do anything wrong. Please
understand!”
“Serena was raised by you. Today, she made a mistake, and you’re responsible
too.” Hans looked at her emotionlessly, “You’re not getting this month’s salary,
and the holiday bonus.” Chapter 1228
“Yes, Mr. Collins.”
Martha acknowledged, her heart filled with unwillingness. However, she dared
not voice any opposition.
“Serena has always listened to you. It’s up to you to guide her now”
“I’ll do my best, Mr. Collins.”
Hans was about to leave when a sudden thought stopped him in his tracks.
“Bella is my own sister.”
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Martha felt her heart lurch at his words.
“Don’t give her any more trouble”
“Yes.”
Martha was taken aback. She hadn’t expected Hans to say such a thing. As she
watched him walk away, her annoyance grew.
Who was really causing trouble for whom?
The thought of Serena having to apologize to that annoying girl the next day
made her blood boil.
The following morning, Arabella discovered a message from the previous night.
It was from Crystal’s mother, Celeste.
[Bella, thank you for trying your best to save Crystal. Today is her funeral. You’ll
come, won’t you?]
[Yes] Arabella replied swiftly.
[Crystal adored you. I believe she would be very happy to have you there to say
goodbye.]
Arabella initially wanted to reply with two words: [My condolences.] But she
knew that the pain of losing a daughter couldn’t be soothed by mere words.
So, she replied instead: [I’ll be there soon.]
Crystal’s funeral was to be held at the Temple family cemetery. The local psychic
said that the best time to bury the deceased was at ten in the morning, as the
geomantic layout of the Temple family’s land, coupled with the deceased’s birth
details, would ensure her wealth and happiness in her next life.
Hence, the funeral was hastily arranged.
Despite the short notice, the ceremony was grandly decorated, and many
people attended.
When Arabella and Romeo arrived, they saw a sea of mourners dressed in
black, a testament to the wide-ranging connections of the Temple family.
The cemetery was adorned with layers of wreaths and elegies, enveloping the
graveyard like a flower bed.
Members of the Temple family, clad in mourning attire, wept in front of the altar,
each immersed in their own sorrow.
After Romeo and Arabella had laid their wreath and paid their respects, they
approached the open-air altar to offer incense to Crystal.
Their striking appearance drew many eyes.
After offering incense, Arabella looked at Crystal’s black and white portrait and
the coffin beneath it, recalling the girl’s lively demeanor when they first met.
Her heart was filled with sorrow. The sound of the Temple family’s crying
brought back the pain of losing her beloved Grandma Grace.
The Temple family members bowed to every visitor who offered incense. Even
though Alger and Celeste, leading the family, were crying heavily, they still
managed to bend over to thank Romeo and Arabella for their presence.
“Romeo, thank you for coming” Alger, unable to hold back his tears, embraced
Romeo.
“My condolences,’ Romeo comforted, patting his back.Chapter 1229
Alger’s sobbing grew even more heart-wrenching, this feeling of losing a
daughter, as if the sky was falling, was too painful, too lethal.
“Y’all need to hold it together. Crystal would be worried.” Arabella hugged
Celeste, “Before Crystal left, what she was most worried about, what she
couldn’t let go of, was definitely you quys.”
Celeste cried with immense sorrow, “I know, I know. but I just can’t calm down.
Bella, I only have one daughter.
How could God be so cruel to take her away? What am I supposed to do for the
rest of my life?”
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Her sobbing only caused the other members of the Temple family to fall deeper
into sorrow.
“I know, I understand.” Arabella patted Celeste’s back. She had been through all
of this and she knew exactly how it felt, like falling into the deep sea, unable to
save herself, even wanting to close her eyes and sink to the bottom.
“I miss her so much, I wish she could sit up and talk to me. I only have one
daughter, from an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes, she grew into a graceful
girl. I had imagined countless possibilities for her future, but I never thought she
would die like this.”
Celeste’s heartbreaking sobs caused the surrounding relatives and mourners to
shed tears.
They also never imagined that such a promising girl would meet with such a
tragic fate.
At this moment, a disturbance arose from the crowd, Celeste lifted her tear-filled
eyes to see the crowd making way for Clark, wearing a black suit, his eyes red
as he entered the chapel.
Celeste was suddenly filled with rage, “What are you doing here? The Temple
family didn’t invite you, get out of here.”
Arabella wanted to say something for Clark.
But Celeste told her, “You saved Crystal, and Crystal liked you very much when
she was alive. You represent the Collins family, I have no objection, but he is not
allowed to step in here!”
“I want to pay my respects to Crystal.”
Clark knew that they hated him to the core, but for Crystal’s last journey, he had
to be there.
Crystal died attempting to save Carol’s foster parents, if he didn’t come, how
could he face his own conscience!
“Get out, get out of here!” Alger, with red eyes, shoved Clark away, “You’re not
welcome here, you know better than anyone why Crystal is lying here! Get out!”
Why did he have to come and make things worse?
They had lost their only daughter, their lives were destined to be lonely.
Why did he have to appear and add insult to injury?
“Take your things and leave.” Alger violently threw the wreath Clark brought for
Crystal at him.
At this moment, a bone-chilling wind whistled by, and the sky began to scatter
delicate snowflakes.
Celeste looked up at the sight of the snowflakes, her eyes reddening even
more, was Crystal showing a sign.
She loved snow in her lifetime.
Did they treat Clark like this, so she showed a sign, wanting them to show
mercy?
“Crystal probably wanted my brother to be here for her last journey.” Arabella
spoke, “Please, let my brother offer incense for Crystal, okay?”
Alger and Celeste broke down in tears.
Clark bowed to them and steadily walked towards the portrait.
The girl’s radiant smile, her bright eyes were still so vivid, yet during her lifetime,
she had undergone inhumane torment.
Tears welled up in Clark’s eyes. He lit the incense, and deeply bowed to the
portrait.
Another gust of wind blew, the snowflakes landed on Clark’s shoulder, like an
invisible hand, gently comforting him.
Alger and Celeste cried even harder, surely their daughter was showing a sign,
she saw this man come to bid her farewell, so a gust of wind came, as a
response.
When Clark bowed to the Temple family, Alger and Celeste finally bowed back to
him.
Arabella’s eyes were somewhat moist. Chapter 1230
“The time has come; the funeral director checked the time and drew out his
words, “Seal the casket.’
At the mention of sealing the casket, a wave of heartache washed over Celeste.
Four pallbearers stood at each corner of the casket, hammer and nail at the
ready, prepared to seal the casket at any moment.
The mourners stood in thirty neat rows, bowing in unison towards the portrait of
the deceased.
The funeral director hosted the funeral.
Enter title…
Just as the nail was about to descend, Celeste suddenly pushed past her
husband and flung herself onto the casket, sobbing, “No, don’t, don’t nail it.”
Tears welled up in Alger’s eyes, and he covered his face, unable to hold back
his sobs.
Clutching the casket, Celeste tearfully asked the hundreds of mourners, “Is
there a chance, just a chance, that we got it wrong? That Crystal isn’t really
dead. There have been many cases like this, haven’t there? Everyone thinks the
patient is dead, but they’re actually still alive, still breathing. Can we check
Crystal again?”
“Celeste.” Louisa held back her tears. She wanted to pull Celeste aside, but
seeing her cry so desperately, she couldn’t bring herself to do it.
“L can feel that Crystal isn’t dead. She doesn’t want to be suffocated inside
there. She’s begging me for help.”
Hope filled Celeste’s words as she pleaded with those around her, “Let’s open
the casket and check again.
Maybe a miracle will happen!”
Her darling daughter had already given them a sign by “making it snow’, she
must have the ability to open her eyes again.
“Madam, let the deceased rest in peace,’ the funeral director advised, “Opening
the casket again would be disrespectful.”
“No, she’s not dead. How can she be considered deceased? Please believe me.
She’s really still alive. Let’s just open it and see.”
As she spoke, a thought struck Celeste, and she turned to look for a slender
figure behind her.
Upon seeing Arabella, she exclaimed excitedly, “Bella, out of everyone here, I
trust you the most. Can you help me see if Crystal is still alive? We’ll open the
casket, and you just have to take a look, okay?”
Filled with compassion, Arabella was about to respond when,
“I beg you.” Celeste was about to kneel.
If it weren’t for Arabella catching her in time, her knees would have hit the
ground.
“Please help me see if Crystal is still alive. I have this strong intuition that she
can be saved. Really!” Celeste held Arabella’s hand as she pleaded through her
tears, “Good girl, help me take a look:
Arabella glanced at Alger. His eyes were filled with a glimmer of hope, as if he,
like Celeste, also wished for their daughter to be alive.
Relatives of the Temple family sobbed quietly, not attempting to intervene.
All the guests were silent, lowering their heads.
The funeral director turned his face away, his eyes slightly moist.
Romeo looked at the girl’s profile, seemingly predicting her decision.
“Alright.”
Upon hearing Arabella’s response, Celeste immediately ordered, “Open the
casket.”
Her voice was filled with anticipation, as if she was confident that her daughter
would awaken.
The casket lid was opened, revealing Crystal dressed in her finest attire, her
face peaceful. As Arabella’s hand brushed against Crystal’s wrist, she felt how
soft her skin had become.
This phenomenon was known as “postmortem lividity’.
After death, the body lost all muscle tension, resulting in the relaxation and
softening of the muscles throughout the body.
Not just soft, her skin was also cold to the touch.
The kind of “deathly cold” that only a corpse would exhibitChapter 1231
“How is it, Bella? Is there any hope?” Celeste’s eyes were filled with anticipation
as she looked at Arabella, waiting for her to deliver a miracle.
Arabella’s gaze fell on her, and with a hesitant voice, she said, “Mrs. Temple,
there’s no sign of life.”
“No, no.” Celeste shook her head, refusing to believe, “Please check her again.
I feel that she’s still with us.”
If Dr. Bella said she was alive, then she must be!
Enter title…
The girl in the coffin, after the undertaker’s makeup and groaming, looked like a
sleeping princess, no different from usual.
“She really isn’t breathing anymore.” Arabella said sorrowfully, “She’s already
gone.”
Celeste couldn’t handle the blow. Her daughter was still lying there, just like how
she remembered from their trip to a popular flower field last year. Her daughter
was lying amongst the colorful blooms, eyes closed while they took beautiful
pictures.
Her daughter was just like that now, lying amongst the flowers.
She was just sleeping.
She was only sleeping!
“Closing the casket.” the funeral director announced.
“No, don’t close it. Crystal, don’t leave me.” Celeste cried out, fainting from the
emotional strain.
“Celeste, Celeste.” Alger rushed to her, tears streaming down his face,
“Someone, call the doctor.”
“Let’s lay her down. I’ll take care of this.” Arabella had anticipated this situation
and brought the acupuncture kit that Romeo had given her.
“Bella, how’s Celeste? Did she faint from excessive grief?” Louisa anxiously
asked from the side.
“Yes, an emotional overload can cause insufficient blood supply to the brain,
leading to fainting. I’ll give her a few acupuncture treatments.”
“Okay”
With Arabella’s words, Louisa felt somewhat reassured.
After Arabella applied a few needles to Celeste’s acupuncture points, she finally
opened her eyes. But seeing everyone dressed in black, and remembering her
daughter’s funeral, tears welled up in her eyes again.
“Celeste, are you feeling better?” Alger asked through his tears, “My heart can’t
handle another shock. Dont scare me. I lost Crystal. I can’t lose you too.”
“Alger.” Celeste couldn’t help but burst into tears holding him.
After a while, the funeral proceeded.
Clark, standing at the side, clenched his fists. He would avenge Crystal, he
couldn’t let Mr. and Mrs. Temple bear this pain in vain.
After the casket was sealed, four pallbearers carried it forward.
Celeste held her daughter’s portrait, following behind in a daze.
Behind her, members of the Temple family were sobbing.
A hundred steps ahead was Crystal’s burial site.
“Prepare for burial.” With the funeral director’s strong voice, the casket was
lowered into the grave.
As the soil fell on the casket, it seemed to slowly fill the grave.
Celeste cried out in agony.
Alger knew that once the dirt was in place, he and his daughter would truly be
separated by the barrier of life and death. He let out a mournful cry, his grief
consuming him.Chapter 1232
The entire congregation was swept up in their grief, tears glistening in their eyes
as they watched the casket being lowered, and the gravestone being set.
“Please, everyone, bow to the departed three times.”
The officiant’s words prompted everyone to bow their heads, time and time
again, bidding their final farewell.
With the heavy snowfall, the world turned white.
Celeste knelt on the snowy ground, clutching the gravestone, unwilling to leave.
Alger knelt beside her, staring at their daughter’s portrait on the stone, weeping
Enter title…
bitterly.
The Temple family relatives couldn’t persuade them to leave, so they thanked
the quests on their behalf.
The quests left in an orderly manner.
Kenneth and Louisa wanted to stay longer with them.
Clark watched the two kneeling figures from a distance. They seemed to have
aged twenty years in an instant, their backs hunched as if crushed by their grief.
“Crystal, I promise to take good care of your parents and ensure their safety;
Clark said, looking at Crystal’s photo on the gravestone, his eyes welling up with
tears. “I’m sorry. I’m truly sorry.”
Crystal’s portrait on the gravestone smiled brilliantly as always.
Seeing Clark standing in the snow for a long time, like a statue, Arabella couldn’t
help but approach him. “Clark, let’s go. Let them stay with Crystal a bit longer”
There was no use staying. Alger and Celeste just wanted to be alone with their
daughter.
All the apologies and guilt were futile.
“Okay.”
Clark eventually looked away, leaving the cemetery with a heavy heart.
“Clark, I found a few leads last night, related to those people. I sent them to your
WhatsApp;’ Arabella said, knowing that what Clark wanted most at this moment
was to avenge Crystal.
“Same here. I sent you the details from my guys; Romeo added, forwarding all
the information he’d received to Clark.
“I’ve also found a few leads. Hopefully, this time, we can get them all” Clark
said, his voice filled with grief and outrage. “You guys go ahead, I’ll leave in a
bit.”
He still wanted to stay outside the cemetery, to spend a little more time with
Crystal.
Arabella nodded and left with Romeo. They didn’t go to the wake but went back
to Reflections Villa.
“When Mom and Dad get back, I’ll ask for Grandpa’s address. We might need to
travel abroad,” Arabella volunteered.
Romeo wrapped a scarf around her neck and said gently, “Alright. Let me know
what’s up.”
“Be careful on the road.” Arabella took off the scarf he had just put on her and
put it back on him, “It’s cold outside and I’m almost home. I don’t need it.”
Romeo had never had Arabella help him with his scarf before, and watching her
intent and beautiful eyes made him smile gently.
“Get inside. It’s snowing,’ Romeo said indulgently. “I’ll leave after you’re inside.”
“You go ahead.”
“I want to see you go in.
In the end, Arabella couldn’t argue with him any longer. Seeing the snow getting
heavier, she quickly entered Reflections Villa.
Romeo knew that Arabella was hurrying because she didn’t want him to be out
in the cold any longer. Chapter 1233
Arabella strolled towards the main building of Reflections Villa. As she glanced
back, she noticed the snowflakes landing on a man’s figure. He lifted his hand,
seemingly waving goodbye.
Arabella waved back and proceeded into the house.
“Bella, I was wrong!”
Suddenly, Serena appeared before her, bowing deeply in a sincere manner,
“Hans punished me yesterday, and I know I was wrong. I shouldn’t have
badmouthed you behind your back. Please forgive my immature behavior.
Enter title…
I’m sorry, and I promise to improve.”
Arabella’s gaze shifted towards the household staff cleaning in the background.
Was this an act for her benefit?
Did Serena want them as her witnesses to prove that she had apologized?
“So, what did you do wrong?” Arabella asked, her eyes gleaming with interest.
“I shouldn’t have badmouthed you in front of my friends.”
“How exactly did you badmouth me?”
“Don’t you want to forgive me, Bella?” Serena bit her lip, ‘Don’t you believe that I
truly realize my mistake?”
“I’m not quite convinced. Tell me, what exactly did you do?”
Serena was reluctant to share her embarrassing story in front of the staff. She
feigned a cough, hoping to divert the topic.
“Ms. Bella, Serena is sincerely apologizing to you. She fell ill yesterday and is
still recovering. She has been waiting here for you since the crack of dawn. All
the staff here can vouch for her.”
Serena coughed a few times, her face pale, “It’s okay. If you’re still mad, I’ll
apologize again. Bella, what can I do to earn your forgiveness?”
“Didn’t you hear my question?”
Arabella’s assertive demeanor made Serena bite her lip, almost on the verge of
tears.
“If you’re afraid to say it, I’ll say it for you.” Arabella didn’t give her any chance to
playact, “In front of outsiders, you claimed that you were the daughter of the
Collins family. You said that being with Romeo was too stressful, so you forced
him to break up with you. Unexpectedly, he found a new love in me to provoke
you, hoping you would change your mind.”
The staff were astounded.
Could Serena come up with such a lie?
As an adopted daughter, how could she have the audacity to say such things?
“So, Hans had to step in to set the record straight. Are you here apologizing to
me because you fear losing your position?” Arabella looked at her disdainfully,
“Am I right?”
The staff looked incredulously at Serena, who could feel their piercing stares.
“Ms. Bella, Serena is sincerely apologizing to you.”
“Did I ask you anything? Can’t she speak for herself?” Arabella shot back a cold
glare, like a gust of icy wind.
The staff were in awe of Ms. Bella’s imposing aura.
Martha was seething inside. If it wasn’t for keeping up the act, she wouldn’t have
held her tongue against this insolent girl!
Serena’s nails dug into her palm, swallowing her humiliation, she was about to
reply.
“I don’t accept your apology.” Arabella passed her by without a second glance.
Serena watched her retreating figure, fuming. This was all Arabella’s doing!
Arabella deliberately disclosed the situation, making her a laughing stock among
the staff!
She deliberately refused to forgive her, causing her humiliation!
She deliberately dernonstrated her arrogance and capability.
Martha was also livid, but she maintained a composed facade, “Serena, Ms.
Bella misunderstood you. You’re still weak from illness. You should rest upstairs.
You can apologize to her later.” Chapter 1234
After Serena stomped upstairs, she was seething with anger. “She’s way too full
of herself!”
“I know, right! Her arrogance is through the roof!” Martha was just as ticked off.
“If it weren’t for Hans, who would apologize to her? You were the one to step
back, but she didn’t budge an inch. She has no place here!”
“I can’t believe this, I really can’t.” Unable to vent her frustration, Serena threw
pillows and stuffed animals all over the room. Still not satisfied, she threw the
tissue box and the remote control on the floor.
Damn it! Just because Hans was on her side, Arabella thought she was all that!
Enter title…
“Hans should know better. You said a few harmless things in front of a friend,
and suddenly you’re vain and proud, as if you’d caused her physical harm. You
had to apologize to her even though you’ve been sick! It’s too much!”
“And then he penalizes me, and privately warns you, docking a month’s salary
and your bonus! That’s way over the line!”
Martha had been a part of this family for eighteen years! She had worked hard,
too!
What did her problem with Arabella have to do with Martha?
Hans even penalized Martha.
She had said a few things against Arabella, without causing her any real harm.
Hans was just too harsh!
“Serena, I’m okay. But your standing in Hans’s eyes has been greatly
diminished by Arabella”
In her anger, Serena suddenly got an idea.
She walked into the kitchen, and the maid, seeing her rummaging around,
asked, “Serena, what are you looking for?”
“I want to make a cup of coffee for Bella.” Serena gently asked, “Where can I
find the coffee beans that she usually likes?”
“They’re in this drawer.” The maid fetched them.
Looking at the coffee beans, Serena realized that Arabella drank a better quality
coffee than she did!
“Yes, Hans bought these a while ago. He said Ms. Bella drinks the same brand
at the office. I usually make her coffee, so I’m sure these are the right beans.”
Serena felt a pang of jealousy. Hans had been secretly buying Arabella this
high-quality coffee, even keeping a stock at the office. He was clearly favoring
her.
“I’ll make a cup for Martha.” Serena took the coffee beans and walked to the
coffee machine.
“Serena, let me do it. These beans require a specific brewing method and
amount to ensure the best flavor when Ms. Bella drinks it.”
Serena didn’t care about the flavor. She just found the whole thing annoying.
“Teach me and I’ll do it.”
Seeing that Serena was determined, the maid instructed her.
After the coffee was brewed, Serena carried it upstairs and knocked on
Arabella’s door.
Serena froze mid-action, suddenly unsure of what to do next.
If she knocked again, it would mean she was inconsiderate. If she spoke, it
would mean she was submissive. Chapter 1235
Damn you, Arabella!
Martha, who was lurking nearby, was about to step forward when Serena
signaled her to stay back. Clearing her throat, Serena began, “Bella, it’s me.
Can you open the door?”
Arabella knew trouble was brewing, so she didn’t even bother to respond.
“Bella.” Serena, balancing a cup of coffee, knocked at the door, “Can you hear
me?”
Arabella left her hanging for a while before finally opening the door.
Enter title…
“Did you poison this or are you planning to spill this coffee on me?”
Serena hadn’t expected her to be this sharp. She quickly put on a smile, “Why
would I do that? I genuinely want to apologize.”
“Are you trying to apologize or teach me a lesson? Do you think I’m oblivious?”
Arabella had spent eighteen years in the Murphy family, where she’d seen all
kinds of tricks, especially since they had found Yolanda, who was constantly
putting on a show. There wasn’t a trick Arabella hadn’t seen.
One could say Serena, being a latecomer, had a long way to go.
“Bella, what can I do for you to accept my apology?” Serena looked at her
sincerely, “Anything within my power, I promise to do it.”
“Is that so?”
Serena nodded earnestly.
“Then stay away from me, appear less in front of me. And when I close the door
later, hold your coffee steady.
Don’t purposely spill it on yourself or break the coffee cup and blame me.”
Arabella said and unceremoniously closed the door.
Serena hadn’t expected her last step to be seen through. Watching Arabella’s
swift and fierce actions, she was left standing awkwardly with the coffee, unsure
whether to leave or stay.
Watching from the shadows, Martha hadn’t expected the girl to be this smart.
She signaled Serena to leave. Serena looked at the expensive coffee in her
hands, and as she walked away, she sighed heavily, “Since Bella doesn’t want
to drink it, I guess my sincerity hasn’t moved her yet. I’ll have to think of another
way.”
A nearby servant cleaning an antique vase saw this and felt a sudden pang of
sympathy for Serena. She had been waiting in the living room since morning to
apologize to Ms. Bella, and despite being humiliated, she had made coffee for
Ms. Bella, only to be treated with disdain.
In the past, Serena would never have tolerated such humiliation.
All because she cared too much about her reputation, and had made some
unfavorable remarks about Ms.
Bella in front of her friends, and now she was paying the price.
“Serena, you’re still not well, you should go back to your room and rest.’ The
servant, Betty, was about the same age as Serena.
Seeing someone on her side, Serena was secretly pleased, but continued to put
on a disappointed front.
“It’s okay, nothing is more important than getting Bella’s forgiveness.”
Seeing Serena leave, Betty felt that Serena wasn’t that bad, she had just taken
a wrong step.
After Serena returned to her room, she immediately changed her demeanor. No
longer appearing weak and depressed, she sniffed the coffee in her hand, which
smelled even more fragrant than what she usually drank.
She had been in this house for eighteen years and had never tasted such
expensive coffee. A small cup like this cost around $200.
As she slowly finished the coffee, a new idea began to form in her mindChapter 1236
Arabella wrapped up her video call in her room, grabbed her things, and
prepared to head out.
Barely stepping out of the main building, Serena quickly caught up with her.
“Bella, where are you going? When will you be back? I had a go at baking with
the chef and made some cupcakes for you. They’ll be ready to eat soon.”
Arabella didn’t expect her to be so obtuse. Turning around, she saw a few staff
cleaning up the garden and eyeing the scene curiously. Even in the large floorto-ceiling windows of the main building, a few window washers were peeking
over.
Enter title…
“Don’t waste your time on me; Arabella said, realizing that Serena was merely
putting on a show for those around them, trying to paint herself as a caring
person.
“Bella, won’t you give me another chance?” Serena pleaded, grabbing Arabella’s
hand.
“Wanna pretend to fall when I let go of you?”
“No, that’s not it! You’ve got it all wrong, Bella.” Serena looked as if she was on
the verge of tears, but she kept a firm hold on Arabella’s hand.
“You there; Arabella called over one of the staff.
The staff member looked surprised but quickly dropped broom and scurried
over. “Yes, Ms. Bella. How may I assist you?”
“Unhand her from me, before she tries to pull a fast one.”
The staff member was perplexed but followed the order.
Shocked, Serena couldn’t believe that Arabella was this cunning. “Bella, what do
I have to do to earn your forgiveness? You won’t drink the coffee I made for you,
you won’t eat the cupcakes I baked, and you won’t accept my apologies. Should
I kneel down and beg?”
She was actually prepared to kneel.
Arabella began counting in her head, one, two, and before she could reach
three.
Sure enough, Martha rushed over from somewhere and pulled Serena back just
in time.
“Serena, you’re still not well.”
“Martha, let go. If kneeling can earn Bella’s forgiveness, I’ll do it, no matter how
long it takes!” Serena’s face was desperate, earnest.
“Ms. Bella, won’t you forgive her? She only shared a few words with her
friends.”
“Are you done yet?” Arabella didn’t expect them to put on such a performance.
The look she gave Serena was even more exasperated.
Serena, feeling the disdain and impatience in Arabella’s eyes, pleaded again,
“Bella, what do I have to do to earn your forgiveness?”
“Haven’t I told you? Stay away fram me. Stop putting on a show,’ Arabella
turned around to leave, not wanting to waste any more time on her sister.
Seeing this, Serena stomped her foot in frustration and chased after her. In her
haste, she tripped and fell forward.
“Serena!” Martha rushed to help her.
Serena quickly waved Martha off and, after a glance at the cold and indifferent
figure in front of her, rose and continued her pursuit.
“Serena, your hand is bleeding! Serena. Oh!” Martha could only follow her.
The staff watched the scene with a touch of sympathy.
“It looks like Serena genuinely wants to apologize to Ms. Bella.”Chapter 1237
“Ms. Bella is usually pretty easy-going, but this time, for some reason, she
seems to be giving Serena the cold shoulder.”
“I agree Serena’s been a bit too candid in front of friends, which isn’t cool, but
Ms. Bella doesn’t have to hold a grudge, especially when Serena is sick.”
“Is this the first time Serena’s done something to upset Ms. Bella? I heard that
last night Hans punished her by withholding dinner and cutting off her allowance
and designer brand supplies. That seems a bit harsh for Serena.”
As Serena ran, she coughed and appeared weak. Seeing Arabella getting into
the car, she called out, “Bella. wait for me!”
Enter title…
Arabella started the car and hit the gas, leaving Serena in her dust.
Serena chased the car until she tripped and fell.
Martha was stunned to see Serena act so harshly towards herself, tripping twice
in a row!
This time, Serena’s palms and wrists were scraped and bleeding from the fall,
and she had cuts on her forehead and chin. Her whole body ached so much that
she couldn’t get up.
“Serena, Serena.” Martha hurriedly came over to help.
“It hurts.” Serena’s chin was so painful that she couldn’t speak, her face twisted
in agony.
“You even scraped your chin. Serena, why are you so hard on yourself? No one
is watching you out here .
There’s no need to hurt yourself like this.”
Serena wanted to say she didn’t mean to fall, but her chin hurt so much she
didn’t want to speak.
Martha quickly called for help from the other house staff and brought over a
wheelchair.
Seeing how badly Serena had hurt herself, the other staff felt a greater
sympathy for her.
In his office, Hans checked the time. He had called a meeting with the heads of
a few subsidiary companies, and Arabella should’ve been in attendance by now.
He was worried that she might still be driving, so he called home to check if she
had left yet.
“Ms. Bella just left.” The house staff reported, then whispered as someone else
entered the house, “Dr. Lee, Serena is in her room.”
“Serena’s still not well?” Hans was surprised to hear that Dr. Lee had come
again, “Has her condition worsened?”
“Yes.” The staff hesitated to tell the whole story.
“But you can tell me.”
“Serena sat in the living room for two or three hours this morning, wanting to
apologize to Ms. Bella, but Ms.
Bella didn’t come home”
Hans knew about this, and replied indifferently, “She went to a funeral.”
The staff member didn’t expect that Ms. Bella had been gone so long because
she was attending a funeral.
They had initially thought that Ms. Bella was intentionally ignoring Serena, and
now felt guilty for their misunderstanding.
“When Ms. Bella came back, Serena tried to apologize, but Ms. Bella wouldn’t
accept it.”
“Later, Serena made a pot of coffee and personally brought it to Ms. Bella, but
she wouldn’t drink it.”
“When Serena saw Ms. Bella getting ready to leave, she ran after her, wanting
to keep her home because she had baked a cake for her that would be ready
soon.”
“But Ms. Bella was in a hurry to leave and didn’t stay. Serena chased after her,
falling twice. The first fall scraped her palms, and the second was worse,
scraping her forehead and chin. That’s why we called Dr. Lee””
“Even though Ms. Bella’s car was already far away, Serena still chased after itChapter 1238
Hans wore a complicated expression as he heard the news.
Just then, Julian knocked and entered. Hans hung up the phone to hear Julian
report, “Miss Bella’s car just pulled into the garage, Mr. Collins. Some of the
subsidiary heads have concerns about Miss Bella never attending the reqular
meetings. Should I address it before she arrives?”
“No need,’ Hans replied in a nonchalant tone, “I will explain.”
“I’ll go get Miss Bella now: It would be helpful for someone to guide Arabella on
her first visit to the corporation.
Enter title…
“I will go.”
Hans rose and left the office immediately.
Julian hadn’t expected Hans to take care of even this small matter personally. It
seemed he truly spoiled his sister.
After parking her car, Arabella received a call from Jack.
“Miss Bella, we’ve found out about Carol’s family background. I’ve sent the
information to you. If our people got it right, this is definitely her family.”
Arabella was swamped with work, and to make things worse, Serena had been
giving her trouble these past few days.
“Miss Bella, are you going overseas again? This time it’s?”
“My grandfather’s illness.”
Jack understood and didn’t inquire further, but he was contemplating how to
extract her grandfather’s address from her, so he could secretly arrange for
protection.
After all, as long as that group of people remained, every day held danger for
Arabella.
“No need to arrange for anyone, I can handle it myself.” Arabella said, ending
the call before Jack could protest.
There were many elevators from the parking lot to the upper floors. Arabella
took the closest one, C2, and according to the floor guide inside the elevator,
she directly went to the 20th floor.
Even though she had visited the McMllian Corporation before, the Collins
Corporation impressed her on her first visit. It was grand and beautiful.
Meanwhile, Hans had descended to the basement from the C1 exclusive
elevator, seeing that his sister’s car was parked there, he assumed she had
gone upstairs.
Julian was surprised at Miss Bella’s speed. Seeing the C2 elevator stopped on
the 20th floor, he knew without a doubt that Miss Bella was heading straight to
the conference room.
“Mr. Collins, shall we proceed to the conference room?”
“Hmm.
As Arabella stepped into the conference roam, all eyes turned towards her.
The conference room was spacious and well lit. Over twenty subsidiary heads
sat around an oval table, these were the highest-ranking officials of the Collins
Corporation’s subsidiaries in Summerfield.
The heads of other subsidiaries in national and international cities would join the
meeting at the corporation at different times, not participating in today’s meeting.
Arabella hadn’t expected everyone besides her and Hans to be present, let
alone that her seat was right next to Hans’s.
As soon as she sat down, the snide comments began.Chapter 1239
“So this is the notorious Ms. Bennett? It’s a pleasure to finally meet you in
person.
“Young people sure do things differently. I heard you rarely show up at the office
yet, but you still draw a salary every month.”
“Not even attending regular meetings, I wonder, how does one get such
treatment?”
“We here are always working day in and day out, like spinning tops. Everyone is
either losing hair or gaining weight. You seem to be in quite good shape, your
work must be relaxing.”
Enter title…
At the entrance, Hans, his eyes suddenly icy, didn’t expect this crowd to dare
speak about his sister in such a way!
Julian, too, was surprised at the number of people who had turned against Ms.
Bella. He was about to intervene when a lazy voice rang out from inside.
Arabella’s gaze swept over everyone, stating nonchalantly, “There are many
reasons for hair loss, and weight gain just means you’re eating too much. If you
want better treatment, work harder, stop being so two-faced.
When you make progress, the people around you will realize that. Besides,
whether I am in good shape or not has nothing to do with whether I am lazy. If
you guys are spending so much time at work, it just means you’re not competent
enough.”
Hearing this, Julian was surprised but also secretly gave Ms. Bella a thumbs-up
in his heart!
Indeed, she had the same aura as anyone from the Collins family.
Hans was also surprised at his sister’s eloquence, his eyes softening.
But the rest of the crowd was not pleased. They all stood up in anger!
“You little brat! Speaking so audaciously, are you implying that you’re better than
us?”
“Have you achieved more than us?”
“Do you dare to say we eat too much and move too little? We were working
before you were even born!”
“I’ve been around for a long time, which means I’ve been with this corporation
for many years. My abilities have been recognized by Mr. Collins, that’s why I’ve
been able to hold this position for so long. And you, a little kid, dare to talk to me
like this? Where are your manners? Has no one ever taught you manners?”
In the face of everyone’s criticism, Arabella remained as calm as ever.
“Respect is mutual. From the moment I stepped into this meeting room, which
one of you have shown me any tespect? You are all older than me, yet you’re
giving me a hard time. In terms of experience, you’re giving a hard time to a
newcomer. You have more experience than me, but it seems that maturity and
wisdom have nothing to do with age, it depends on the person: As Arabella
finished speaking, the room went silent.
Arabella leaned back, radiating an aura of authority.
“You all represent the highest authority of the subsidiaries of the Collins
Corporation, yet you behave like impulsive teenagers. Shouldn’t you be more
cautious?”
“If you feel that I have better treatment and you’re not satisfied, why not express
your feelings to the higher-ups? Do you think I can give you a raise or approve
your holiday?”
“Those who are brave enough, why not just quit instead of wasting time here?”
Standing at the door, Julian was surprised by Ms. Bella’s audacity. She had left
the crowd speechless.
Hans also didn’t expect his sister to have such courage and authority. No
wonder she could manage her subordinates so well, those veterans were no
match for her.
“Moreover, to my knowledge, some of you have clawed your way up from the
bottom of the company over the course of decades to reach your current
positions. Some of you have been transferred from the group to subsidiary
companies and have been in charge for seven or eight years. To my
understanding, the achievements you’ve made during your tenure are indeed
not as brilliant as mine in the past six months.”
As she spoke, all eyes turned to her, surprised at her audacity!
Indeed, ever since she took over the Group, she had made one big move after
another.
Under her leadership, the company had transformed from a state of near-death
to an industry benchmark. Its Net profit each month was higher than their
companies, leading them to once suspect she was fabricating data. Chapter 1240
But they were, after all, her elders and seniors. Yet she dared to speak to them
in such a manner, she had no respect for them at all!
“If you want my kind of pay, you’ll have to surpass me first.”
Then Arabella left them fuming in silence.
They had mistaken her for a pushover.
It turned out she was a porcupine in disquise!
Hans concealed his smirk and finally stepped inside.
Enter title…
Julian followed suit, struggling to suppress his laughter.
“Mr. Collins!”
As soon as Hans appeared, everyone immediately rose, putting on their best
demeanor to greet him.
The room was in silence when Hans came in. Arabella smirked, stood up, and
joined the others in greeting, “Mr.
Collins’.
Hans’s gaze shifted to her, “You’re here.”
Everyone was taken aback that Mr. Collins would show concern for a company
head who never attended meetings, and his tone was even gentle. This must be
the calm before the storm!
After all, Mr. Collins was never known to be easygoing!
In his eyes, anyone who did not abide by the group’s rules and regulations had
to leave the group!
The fact that this young lady was seated next to Mr. Collins must be part of his
plan, right?
The real show was about to begin.
“Sit!
With one word from Hans, everyone sat neatly again, straightening their backs
and looking at Hans, daring not to even breathe.
After Hans took his seat, he remained silent, his gaze sweeping over everyone
present. His eyes were like a heavy burden, pressing directly onto each person.
A few heads of subsidiaries speculated that Mr. Collins’ silence might indicate
his dissatisfaction with Arabella’s absence from meetings. They hoped someone
would start the discussion to set the stage for him.
Mr. Baldwin thought for a while and was the first to speak, “Mr. Collins, before
the meeting begins, I would like to raise an issue. Ms. Bennett, the head of the
Collins Fashion Group, has never attended any meetings. I believe this
seriously violates the group’s rules and regulations and should be punished.”
“I agree.” Another subsidiary head, Mr. Armand, stood up to speak, “If everyone
disregards the group’s rules and regulations, then the whole group will be like a
plateful of sand. How can you manage the company? How can others accept
this?”
“Moreover, reliable sources say that Ms. Bennett never clocks in at the
company. She leaves all matters, big or small, to her assistant, yet she still
draws her salary every month. I find this unacceptable!” The speaker was Mr.
Carter.
Hans glanced at the three of them and asked calmly, “Anyone else has an
opinion?”
“Me.”
“Mel”
“Mel”
“Mr. Collins, I also have an opinion,”
“So do I!”
Many people raised their hands to express their dissent. All present, except
Arabella, raised their hands!
Julian didn’t expect this bunch to be so fearless. Once they found out about Ms.
Bella’s identity, they might start begging for mercy.
“Since you all have objections, before discussing this matter, I’d like you all to
give a warm round of applause to Arabella Collins, for her first-ever meeting
attendance.”
As Hans finished speaking, the sparse applause accompanied by puzzled looks.
Was she a member of the Collins family?