SWNOVELS Chapter 451-460
Chapter 451
“Sorry, it’s just so packed in here, the kitchen can’t keep up. Bear with us a bit longer, your food will be out soon.”
The older lady heard this and thought, don’t pull her leg, this was the Dawn Restaurant, with so many people in the kitchen, how could they possibly be overwhelmed?
From the manager’s words earlier, it seemed like they were waiting for some important guest?
So, just because there was an important guest, they were not going to serve them, the regular customers?
Especially since Olga had splashed out and booked the whole floor, she was hardly a regular customer, right? Why hadn’t even drinks been served yet? This was so weird.
Olga waited a bit longer, saw the manager talking with a group of waiters. Unable to hold back her frustration, she walked over, her anger building up inside. “Manager, when will we get our food? Our guests are starving.”
“Madam, I’m really sorry, actually we were not planning on serving other guests today, it was you and Mr. Murphy who insisted on dining here and insisted that we clear out eighty–eight spots for you.” said the manager.
Otherwise, he wouldn’t have gone to the trouble of setting up eleven large tables and marking out a spot for them to sit.
“Our guests tonight are very important, our superiors have made it clear that they mustn’t be neglected, all our efforts should be focused on them.”
“So you mean, if they haven’t arrived, we can’t start eating?”
“Not like that, madam, I still took a risk to mark out this spot for you, if the executives found out that we served you in advance and neglected the important guests, we might lose our jobs!”
Attlee and Yolanda watched from a distance, saw that Olga seemed to be getting nowhere, hurried over, before they could say anything, they saw the manager receive a phone call, the important guest had arrived!!!
The manager, along with all the restaurant staff, went out in unison to greet them.
Olga wanted to see who this important guest of the evening could possibly be.
All she saw was a beautiful girl stepping out of a luxury van, followed by a nanny.
That figure, that temperament.
Before Attlee and Olga could even process what was happening, they saw the manager leading dozens of employees respectfully greeting Arabella. Then, they separated and stood on both sides, bowing as they awaited Arabella’s entrance.
Arabella thought, surely Carl had told them about the VIP coming tonight, that was why they made such a big fuss.
She finished work later than usual today, her parents and others had arrived first, had the driver pick her up in the van, didn’t want her to be bored on the road alone, even had Edith accompany her.
“Ms. Bella, judging by this scene, Mr. McMillian really values you.” Edith finished speaking with a smile, then suddenly noticed three familiar figures on the left side
of the entrance.
Weren’t they the three people they accidentally ran into after dinner at the restaurant last time?
They were so keen to ask about Ms. Bella’s identity.
If she remembered correctly, they seemed to be Ms. Bella’s former foster parents and sister?
ཅ – = ༤ ༥ ༠
As Arabella stepped through the entrance, she saw them. She glanced at them briefly before looking away, treating them as if they were invisible.
Attlee was so surprised he couldn’t believe it, “How is Bella here?”
Olga was also a bit shocked, “She’s the important guest tonight?”
“The nanny behind our sister seems like the one we met before, right?”
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Last time, the nanny mentioned something about Arabella’s real parents preparing loads of fancy gifts to show their gratitude to the Murphy family for raising their kid all these years, but they didn’t accept any.
Did it mean Arabella’s biological parents were filthy rich?
As Yolanda pondered over this, she subconsciously clenched her fists, feeling quite peeved.
Arabella stepped into the VIP elevator amidst warm welcomes. As the elevator doors closed, she glanced up and caught sight of Zachary’s stunned look from afar. Zachary had just reached the entrance when Arabella’s grand entrance froze him in his tracks.
Why were all the restaurant staff greeting Arabella?
Was that her nanny trailing behind her?
If he was not mistaken, she just got out of a mobile home worth millions.
The lobby’s guests were visibly surprised and started to whisper.
“Isn’t that Arabella? She didn’t even say hello, not even to her own parents standing right in front of her. She didn’t even spare them a second glance.”
“What’s going on? Why is Arabella acting so aloof, as if she doesn’t know any of us?
“What’s the deal? Didn’t Olga say her daughter did well on her exams and was treating all her friends and family to dinner? Why did Arabella head straight upstairs?”
“Is there some surprise waiting for us upstairs? Is Arabella setting up something up there?”
“No way, Arabella just now looked like she didn’t recognize any of us.”
“The floor Arabella went to is the eighth floor, the highest and best place in the entire restaurant. It has one private room and a huge terrace. They say the view there is fantastic.”
Everyone was intrigued by the last remark, asking, “How do you know?”
“We have a relative who’s doing well in Summerfield. He wanted to book a private room, but couldn’t. He told us about the eighth floor, even saying that it’s worth paying 50,000 dollars just to take a look.”
“How did Arabella get up to such a posh place?”
“What is going on?”
Many guests were asking Olga, who was still in shock, her mind filled with Arabella’s aloof face when she passed by.
A sense of unease was growing stronger.
Just how influential, wealthy, and capable was Arabella to get to the eighth floor?
“Zachary, you came?” Yolanda’s voice successfully diverted everyone’s attention. She walked up to him, holding his hand and asked with a warm smile, “Why are) you standing there like a statue? Come on in.”
“Is this the kid from the Panter family? He looks impressive, has a good vibe. Kids raised in mansions are just different. This vibe, this look, is definitely not
ordinary.”
“Compared to him, the girl next to him doesn’t seem to match up.”
“Are they a couple? They don’t look like a good fit. If they are a couple, the girl is really lucky.”
Hearing these words, Yolanda’s expression changed immediately, feeling a bit embarrassed.
“I heard the Murphy family and the Panter family are engaged, isn’t Arabella the one engaged to Zachary? Where did this girl come from? Why is she holding onto Zachary’s hand so tightly?”
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“She’s holding Arabella’s fiance’s hand. Why haven’t Attlee and Olga said anything?”
“Did Arabella leave because she couldn’t handle this blow?”
Seeing how things were going. Attlee decided to step in. Raising his hands, he motioned for everyone to calm down.
“Folks, I appreciate y’all taking time from your busy schedules to join us tonight. Eighteen years ago, a big fire led to a mix–up and I mistakenly brought Arabella home and raised her Perhaps it was fate’s plan, but eighteen years later, I had the chance to find my biological daughter, Yolanda. The girl you see now is my real daughter”
With a smile, Attlee continued, “Yoli, why don’t you come up here and say hi to everyone?”
Hearing this, a buzz of chatter started.
“Wait, what? Yolanda is Attlee and Olga’s real daughter? They do look alike.”
“What a pity, Arabella is such a beauty. She’s not a Murphy after all!”
“I always thought it was strange when I visited the Murphy’s and saw Arabella’s complexion. I thought Attlee and Olga were so lucky to have such a beautiful girl, turns out she isn’t their biological daughter.”
“No wonder Arabella seemed so cold earlier. Maybe she’s back with her real parents?”
“Attlee, where’s Arabella? Is she still in your family?”
Attlee felt a bit awkward hearing everyone say Arabella was prettier than his own daughter, but he kept his smile when answering the last question. “Arabella has found her biological parents and she returned to them not long ago.”
“I see.” Everyone started discussing again. Arabella’s biological family seemed to be well–off, making a grand exit. In comparison, the Murphy family appeared somewhat shabby. It seemed they had mistreated her all these years.
Yolanda then stepped up to the stage, “I’m grateful to fate for helping me find my real parents and for all of you, my family and friends. Thank you all for coming.” “Yoli recently took her college entrance exams and did really well. Tonight, we are not only celebrating her high scores and her likely acceptance into a top university, but also announcing her identity. We’re also letting you all know that she and Zachary will be getting engaged soon. I believe you’ve received the invitations, right? We hope you all can make it.”
-Hearing this, everyone was stunned. The Murphys and the Panters were really going to have an engagement party?
Yolanda was one lucky girl. Coming home to become the daughter of a tycoon, soon to be the Panter’s daughter–in–law, and she was also quite accomplished.
Just as everyone was talking, Yolanda noticed a handsome man entering the door. He was dressed in an expensive suit, his tall stature and strong aura commanding respect. His extremely handsome face was impossible to ignore.
He was such a hunk.
Who was he?
Was he here for dinner tonight?
Although Yolanda couldn’t see where he was heading, she guessed he was probably going to a private room upstairs.
She had never seen such a good–looking man in her life. His physique, his aura, everything about him was just her type.
Compared to him, Zachary seemed very ordinary.
She never thought there would be such a man in the world, both noble and aloof. She started feeling ambitious, but also a bit regretful for choosing Zachary.
She began to question her own judgment.
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“Yoll, Yoli?” Attlee softly called her name, even gently tugging on her dress.
Yolanda finally shifted her gaze, coming back to reality.
“Go invite Zachary to say a few words on stage.”
Yolanda knew her father wanted everyone to see how outstanding his future son–in–law was.
Even though Zachary seemed a bit off tonight, Yolanda still gently descended the stage, took Zachary’s hand, and led him up.
“Looks like Zachary really values Yolanda’s opinions. If Yolanda asks him to go on stage, he goes on stage.”
“They seem to be pretty tight.”
“What a shame; I prefer Arabella.”
“Same here.”
Zachary said a few words on stage and then left.
Yolanda, led by him, was about to step down when her gaze inadvertently returned to the entrance. A trendy guy had just walked in!
His hair was brown, and was dressed in fashionable clothes, wearing sunglasses and a mask. His physique, style, and aura all reminded her of the popular star David Collins.
Just as she wanted to take a closer look, the guy had already strode towards the elevator.
Who would’ve thought that the clientele at Dawn Restaurant was so high–class? Well, except for Arabella.
Even if Arabella was awesome, Yolanda wouldn’t admit she was inferior.
As soon as Arabella stepped into the private room, she noticed a strange face, a beautiful and elegant lady.
Time hadn’t left any traces on her face; she appeared to be only in her thirties, incredibly youthful.
“Bella, you’re here?” Louisa immediately noticed Arabella and approached her.
Arabella nodded. “Sorry to have kept everyone waiting.”
“We’ve just arrived, not long at all.” The classy lady flashed a friendly smile, looking very approachable.
Louisa took Arabella’s hand and led her to the lady, saying, “I was just talking about you! This is your aunt, Beverly. Beverly, this is Arabella, Kenneth, and I’s biological daughter.”
Beverly Collins softly said, “You’re Arabella? So pretty! Joanne, Bella really resembles you, but I must say, Bella is even more beautiful; your beauty has found its successor.”
On hearing this, Louisa laughed more cheerfully and said, “Your aunt sure knows how to sweet–talk.”
“Bella, I’m your aunt; I’m glad you’re back home.” Beverly finished, extending her hand in a friendly gesture to shake Arabella’s hand, the picture of a proper lady.
“Nice to meet you, Aunt.” Arabella responded politely.
“I’ve just heard from your mother; you’ve been managing the clothing company all this while? So the major progress the company’s made recently is all thanks to you? You’re really remarkable! You’ve inherited your father’s business acumen, which is smart and astute, and your mother’s beauty as well; you’re both beautiful and capable.”
Having said this, Beverly laughed and looked at Louisa, saying, “You two, you sure know how to make kids!”
Louisa, eyes squinting in laughter, said, “You’ve already flattered us to the skies; still want to go on?”
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Beverly said with a grin, “I’m telling you straight,”
Just then, a middle–aged man came out of the restroom, looking sharp and classy. His eyes widened when he saw Arabella, as if he didn’t expect her to show up so soon.
“Bella, let me introduce you. This is your uncle,” said Louisa, stepping forward. “Lucas, this is Arabella.”
Lucas Collins immediately broke into a smile, greeting her warmly. “Well, pf course she’s Bella! You’re a spitting image of your mom!”
“I always say Bella’s beauty outshines her mom’s. Look at her eyebrows, her features, her aura,” Beverly chimed in, singing Arabella’s praises.
“Hi, Uncle,” Arabella greeted him politely.
“Hey there! Glad to see you finally back home. You must’ve had it rough out there. Don’t worry; from now on, we’ve got your back. If you need anything, just holler! We’re all family now, and we’re here to look out for you!”
Thanks, Uncle,” Arabella said, then gave Beverly a glance, “and thank you, Auntie.”
“This kid’s got manners!” Lucas chuckled. “I heard you’re not just a whiz kid but also a pro at running a company. That deserves some reward!”
With that, Lucas pulled out a bank card he had prepared. “Just a little reward from us. Welcome home. The PIN’s six zeros go on, splurge a little!”
Arabella was speechless. Another bank card? Why was everyone in this family so keen on handing her bank cards?
“You guys got her a present and a bank card,” said Louisa, her heart warmed by the attention lavished on Arabella.
“The bank card is our way of welcoming Bella back home, a small token from us. The present is for acing her exams,” Lucas explained, offering the bank card.
But Arabella stepped back, saying politely, “Thanks, Uncle, but I really don’t need the card.”
“Look at her, still playing coy with me!” Lucas laughed, looking at Beverly.
Beverly quickly stepped in, stuffing the card into Arabella’s pocket. “This is from us; just take it! It’s not a fortune, just a little something. If you don’t, we’ll be up all night worrying!”
Arabella started to refuse, but her mom cut in, “Just accept their gift, honey!”
After all, they weren’t short on cash, and they liked showing their affection with money. If she didn’t let them, they’d definitely be tossing and turning all night.
Arabella sighed inwardly. Watching Beverly tuck the card into her pocket and then give her a warm smile, she thanked them again.
“You silly goose, there’s no need for formalities with family!” Beverly said, then checked her watch. “Where on earth is Alma?”
She glanced at Arabella, as if to explain, “She ran into a friend here earlier and went to say hi. It’s been 20 minutes, and she’s still not back. I’ll give her a ring.”
“No need; let her chat with her friend. It’s fine,” Louisa said quickly.
“But Bella’s here, and the food’s almost ready. We can’t keep everyone waiting for her, can we?” Beverly retorted, pulling out her phone to dial Alma’s number.
The next second, a melodious ringtone sounded from the doorway. The handle jiggled, and the door swung open.
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A stunning and haughty girl walked through the door, followed by a nanny.
“Is Alma here?” Beverly ended her call at once, pretending to be cross. “Why are you so slow, child? Your cousin is already here! And Lina, why didn’t you remind her?”
Nanny Lina immediately bowed her head, apologizing, “I’m sorry, ma’am, my bad.”
“Come here, let me introduce you. This is your cousin, Arabella Collins. Arabella, this is your cousin, Alma.”
Arabella grinned, realizing the girl who bumped into her and stepped on her foot at the mall without apologizing today was actually her cousin, Alma. Wasn’t she the one who said that QY’s clothes looked ordinary and not worthwhile to buy after looking around?
Why was she head to toe in QY today?
Alma’s face turned red as she noticed Arabella’s gaze, as if someone had just slapped her.
Perhaps it was unexpected to encounter Arabella here. A trace of surprise flashed across her face, but she quickly regained her composure, forcing a calm demeanor, and asked, “Mom, is she really the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Collins?”
“Yes, she is. Now say hello!”
Alma was a bit sour to find out that her cousin could casually wear shoes worth two hundred grand.
“What are you standing there for? Say hello!” Beverly looked at her sternly, then turned to the others and laughed. “She’s probably starstruck by her gorgeous cousin, right?”
“Ma’am, you might not know, but Ms. Alma was ticked off today! She said she met a very rude girl at the mall.”
Before Lina could finish, Alma interrupted lowly, “Lina!”
Lina didn’t know that the “rude” girl mentioned was Arabella and thought that Alma didn’t want to talk about it because she didn’t want to ruin the mood. So, she added on her own, “Ms. Alma has never been wronged since she was little! Ma’am, we need to deal with this Who dares to mess with our young lady?”
Arabella chuckled at this and said coolly, “I think the one who was wronged was the person you stepped on and bumped into without apologizing, right?” Beverly was confused. “What’s going on?”
Louisa was quick to catch on: “Arabella, did you meet Alma before? Do you know what happened?”
“Yeah, we have.” Arabella shrugged. “Alma bumped into someone, stepped on them, and didn’t want to apologize. That person’s shoes cost two hundred grand, and she decided to pay twenty grand for dry cleaning, but”
Everyone chimed in, “But what?”
“That person didn’t accept the money but donated it instead. I guess that’s why Alma is upset.”
Alma was fuming but didn’t dare say anything in case Arabella revealed who was next.
The dinner party tonight was centered around Arabella, and she would be reprimanded by all the parents.
Arabella anticipated this and looked at her with a glint in her eye.
“You child!” Beverly finally understood the situation and scolded Alma, “You bumped into someone, stepped on their shoes, and didn’t even say sorry? That’s too much!”
“Mom.”
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“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?”
“Yes, they’re all in there.”
“When I meet your parents, you should give me some courage, right?” Romeo extended his hand to her as she turned to leave, looking at her expectantly.
He had met her parents many times before; he had been to her house countless times; his courage was no less than anyone else’s; he just wanted an opportunity to hold her hand.
Seeing that she didn’t react, Romeo walked up to her and took her hand.
The two families sitting at the table watched them walk in hand in hand, and the sharp–eyed Beverly suddenly noticed the necklace around Arabella’s neck, which was the globally famous, invaluable crown necklace once owned by Shirley McMillian!
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Such a pricey item is rumored to only be passed on to the daughter–in–law.
Has Arabella already won Shirley’s approval?
But she heard Shirley’s condition hasn’t gotten any better; could it be Phillip’s idea?
Who would have thought that Arabella just got back to this family, not only loved by her parents but also favored by Phillip and Romeo? Look at Serena; the jealousy in her eyes was about to spill out. Such a restless child.
“Romeo’s here?” Kenneth stood up cheerfully, signaling a seat beside him: “Come sit over here.”
“Sorry, I got a bit held up. I’m late.” Romeo said, then looked at Lucas and Beverly. He spoke with gentlemanly politeness, “I’m really sorry for keeping everyone waiting; I’ll punish myself with three glasses.”
He picked up a glass of red wine from the table, poured it and drank it three times in a row.
Even though Kenneth and Louisa both said it wasn’t necessary, and even Lucas and Beverly tried to dissuade him, Romeo still finished all three glasses. His behavior was cold and noble, and his overwhelmingly strong aura coupled with a masculine charm was mesmerizing.
“What a polite kid!”
“He can really handle his wine–three glasses–and he’s not even blushing or out of breath. Romeo, sit down. You must be hungry.” “Don’t wait for David; let’s start serving the food!”
“Brother–in–law, good evening.” Serena greeted with clear ulterior motives. Dressed to impress, her goal was to catch Romeo’s eye. Alma also called out to Romeo, but he only nodded slightly; his gaze quickly moved to Arabella, not lingering on them for long.
A flash of disappointment crossed Serena’s eyes.
“Romeo, I heard you’ve been really busy lately. No matter how busy you are, you must take care of your health. Even though you’re young now, being career–driven is good, but it’s not worth it if you end up like me, aching all over when you’re old! You need to rest more; health comes first!” Lucas said with a chuckle.
With a ladylike smile, Beverly said, “Romeo doesn’t need your reminders! He has a wife to take care of him.”
“Hahaha, that’s true.”
Beverly gently looked at Romeo, then at Arabella, saying, “Romeo is handsome and hardworking; Bella is capable and stunningly beautiful. They’re a perfect match!”
“Indeed.” Lucas laughed, “Romeo, my brother went through a lot to find his daughter; you better cherish her! Or we, the elders, won’t agree!”
“Don’t worry, I will cherish this fate and treat Bella well.” As Romeo said this, he gave Arabella a doting look.
Seeing the atmosphere heating up, Lucas changed the topic with a smile: “I heard you recently acquired several companies and bought the areas of Hollyfalls and Windhelm. Are you planning to build a residential district in Hollyfalls and a high–end department store in Windhelm?”
Before Lucas could finish, Kenneth interrupted with a laugh, saying, “Hey, let’s not talk about work today. You rarely come, and you’ve already had three glasses of wine. I should toast to you. You’ve been looking after Bella and busy with work; you’ve worked hard.”
He poured a glass of wine, and Romeo did the same for himself. He raised his glass and poured a bit out, saying, “You’re too kind; I’m honored to take care of Bella.”
“Haha, you’re quite the smooth talker.”
Just as Kenneth was about to drink, Louisa and Arabella simultaneously reminded him, “Don’t drink too much.”
At this, Kenneth and Romeo both paused, then put their glasses down.
“We’re about to eat; let’s not drink just yet!” Kenneth laughed, clearly afraid of his wife.
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I’ll take that toast; consider the wine drunk.”
“Alright, consider mine drunk too.”
It was clear to everyone that Kenneth deeply respected Louisa’s thoughts, and Romeo had high regard for Arabella’s opinions as well.
Romeo glanced at Arabella, leaned in, and whispered, “I was late, so I punished myself with three drinks; no more after this.”
“Oh.”
“What got you so busy at work today? Why did you finish so late?” Romeo leaned in to ask her, studying her expression.
Arabella’s eyes were incredibly exquisite, paired with a sense of aloofness, and the wildness that seeped from her inner self was captivating.
“Just had a last–minute collaboration; the partner came to our company.”
So Arabella stayed to discuss the collaboration, and they happily signed a contract in the end..
“Who’s the partner?”
YC
That’s a decent company.” Romeo agreed, “Very reliable.”
Arabella laughed, saying, “It’s rare to hear praise from you.”
Their intimate and natural conversation was captivating.
Just then, there was a knock on the private room door, and David walked in.
He took off his sunglasses, all smiles and sunshine, and said, “Sorry I’m late!”
He greeted everyone cheerfully as he entered and then found Arabella, ruffling her hair, saying, “Little sis, I’m here! Get me a seat!”
Originally, Kenneth was sitting next to Romeo, then Arabella next to Romeo, and Serena next to Arabella. But David insisted on squeezing in between Arabella and Serena.
Actually, he wanted to sit between Romeo and Arabella, but he was worried about the reactions from his parents and Romeo.
“Were you busy today, Bella?” David sat down, and before Arabella could answer, he turned to Romeo and said, “Look at how hard Bella’s working running a company at such a young age; you should help her out.”
“I’d like to.”
But she wouldn’t let him, so all he could do was look for other ways to cooperate privately, which was tough.
“I can handle it.” Arabella was clearly defending Romeo.
The corners of Romeo’s lips lifted instantly; he could tell that Arabella really cared for him!
“How about taking a break from work tomorrow? David can take you out.” David was also hoping for a chance to get closer to his sister. Without waiting for Arabella’s refusal, he whined, “In a few days, I’ll start working, and then you won’t see me for months.”
“Then Bella’s ears will get a break.” Romeo added.
“You can’t wait for me to leave!”
Alma noticed Serena’s awkward look. From the moment Romeo entered to David’s appearance, their attention was all on Arabella, and no one gave Serena a second glance.
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David suddenly realized there was someone else next to him after a while, swiftly turned his head, and said, “Serena?”
“Mm,” Serena responded, a small smile forming on her lips as she heard David call her name.
“How much did you score on the college entrance exam this time?” David hadn’t asked about her scores since he came back; he only knew Bella got full marks.
Even though David’s voice was quite low, Serena’s face turned awkward immediately; she could even hear Alma’s snicker from the side.
“David.” Alma called out with a laugh, volunteering, “Serena got 722 points, and I got 731.”
“I heard the exam was pretty tough this time; good job on getting 731.”
Alma lifted her chin in a challenging manner, throwing a glance at Serena. Before she could even feel proud, she heard David add,
“But Bella is the real badass here.” David said this and took some food for Arabella as the restaurant manager served a plate. “Bella, eat up; you’re too skinny!”
Romeo peeled a shrimp for Arabella and placed it in her bowl. Not to be outdone, David used a tool to extract crab meat and put it in Arabella’s bowl as well.
Louisa served Arabella some veggies, Kenneth refilled her soup, and all eyes were on Arabella.
A calculating glint flashed in Alma’s eyes. She glanced at Serena’s hemline, pressed it down with her chair leg, and raised a glass of orange juice, pretending to say, “Cousin, this one’s for you.”
Before she could finish her sentence, she pretended to drop the juice on Serena’s dress.
“Ah.” Serena didn’t expect this little imp to prank her in front of everyone.
Beverly, who had seen through this little drama, pretended to scold, “Alma, how could you be so careless? Apologize to your sister now!”
“I’m sorry, sis, it wasn’t on purpose!” Alma looked genuinely sorry.
“Are you okay?” David took out some napkins to wipe Serena’s dress, oblivious to the girls‘ squabble.
The hemline was too long to be cleaned completely.:
Serena couldn’t lose her temper in front of everyone, especially with Romeo there, so she stood up and said, “I’m going to the restroom to clean this up.”
A gleeful glint flashed in Alma’s eyes, for she had trapped Serena’s hemline under the chair leg.
Serena was in a hurry to go to the restroom. She let out a scream as she stood up and fell to the ground.
“Sis, are you okay? How did you fall?” Alma rushed to help her up, actually just wanting to get a close–up view of her embarrassment, and gave her a smug look. “Did your long dress trip you? You really need to be more careful. Did you hurt yourself?”