SWNOVELS Chapter 781-800
Chapter 781
Cherry was severely reprimanded by her mother, and had to apologize
sincerely, swallowing her pride.
“Last time at the club, I saw with my own eyes that your daughter picking a fight
with my daughter-in-law, and then two days later, here she is again, under my
nose, picking on my daughter-in-law.
Are the McMillians just easy targets? Even a kid can mess with us?”
Cynthia hadn’t expected the club incident to come up and then gave her
daughter a harsh slap on the shoulder, “Why are you always causing trouble?”
Enter title…
“I’m truly sorry, Jennifer. I’ve failed in disciplining my daughter,”
Cynthia bowed in apology, turning to Arabella, bending a full 90 degrees and
sincerely said, “I’m really sorry. I haven’t raised Cherry properly, but I promise
you we’ll work on it. It won’t happen again.”
“Mrs. Evert, you’re not the one who did wrong. There’s no need for you to
apologize on behalf of her’ Arabella’s voice was cold and clear, without any hint
of taking advantage of the McMillian’s influence.
Cynthia noticed that Arabella’s character matched Jennifer’s well as if she was
born into the McMillian family.
They truly seemed like mother and daughter.
“You’re kind and understanding, it’s all Cherry’s fault. She’s been spoiled rotten
by us.”
As Cynthia said that, she turned to her daughter and curiously asked her, “What
happened to the cake earlier?”
Cherry didn’t expect her mother to ask that and was at a loss for words.
Cynthia’s tone turned fiercer, “If the CCTV can’t find it, I have my ways. Better
tell the truth, or I’ll skin you alive!”
Cherry was frightened and finally mumbled with her head lowered, “I knocked it
over myself.’
Cynthia was furious and asked, “With what? How did you do it?”
“I was angry about the country club incident, so when I saw her passing by, I
knocked the cupcake over with my elbow.’
Cynthia then gave her a hard slap across the face.
Cherry was stunned, looking at her mother in disbelief.
“Is this how I have raised you all these years? You can dislike someone, avoid
them, not befriend them, but you absolutely cannot harm them! Today, not only
did you try to harm someone, but you also did it through despicable means!
How could you turn out this way? At eighteen, you’re an adult, yet you’re doing
these irrational things!”
Cherry was scared by her mother’s anger and started crying.
“Foolish! Anyone would think this is the Evert family’s usual behavior!” Cynthia
made her apologize again.
This time, Cherry couldn’t brush it off and apologized sincerely.
“What about you guys?” Jennifer angrily looked at Cherry’s friends.
The girls were terrified and hurriedly apologized.
“We’re sorry, Jennifer, sorry, Arabella. We did see Cherry knock the cupcake
over but didn’t stand up for Arabella, that was wrong of us.”
“It’s all my fault, please give me another chance.”
“We’re sorry, truly sorry.’
Seeing how scared they were, Arabella and Jennifer decided to let
it go and went upstairs for afternoon tea.
Cynthia quickly arranged with the restaurant manager to have a tab, meaning
that any expenses incurred by the McMillians or
Arabella in the restaurant would be charged to the Everts.
After that, she dragged Cherry home for a stern lecture. Chapter 782
A few days later.
After wrapping up his work, Romeo decided to take Arabella out for a movie
night.
But as soon as he got home, he found Arabella all dressed up, ready to go out.
“Out with Mom again?” He asked.
“Yep, Aunt Jennifer asked me to accompany her while shopping,”
She replied.
Enter title…
That had been going on for days!
Once Arabella had left, Romeo couldn’t help but call Jennifer, “Mom, when are
you and Dad leaving for your trip?”
“We decided not to go; Jennifer’s voice sounded cheerful, “I realized that I have
more fun with Bella.”
Romeo asked, a hint of frustration in his voice, “Don’t you love traveling the
world? Weren’t you supposed to set off right after visiting Grandma and
Grandpa?”
“No, I prefer spending time with Bella than looking at the beaches of Maldives.
Bella won’t be home for dinner tonight, you’ll have to manage on your own. I
must hang up now, Bella might try to call me.”
Exasperated, Romeo recalled how a couple of days ago, he wanted to take
Bella to see the waterfalls, but his mom whisked her away with a single phone
call.
Yesterday, he planned to show Bella the rolling clouds at the sea, but again, his
mom got there first.
And that day, he wanted to take Bella to a movie, but by the time he got home
and was ready to ask her, she was already dressed and out the door.
Sitting on his couch in his empty house, Romeo felt frustrated but didn’t know
who to vent to.
On the other side of town.
Arabella, arm in arm with Jennifer, had visited several luxury stores.
Jennifer was a top-tier VIP customer of many high-end brands, so every store
they walked into would close its doors to other customers, providing exclusive
service to them to make them feel as comfortable as it can be.
At that time, they were in a top-tier fashion store, filled with all types of clothing.
The store manager, along with several employees, enthusiastically followed
Jennifer and Arabella around, introducing various items and curiously wondering
about Arabella’s identity.
“We’ve never seen this young lady before; The store manager complimented
genuinely, “She’s incredibly beautiful and carries a unique aura.”
Jennifer loved hearing praises about her daughter-in-law, she chuckled and
asked, “Do we look like mother and daughter?”
Mother and daughter?!
The store manager chuckled, “Mrs. McMillian, you are too young for that. More
like sisters. But the young lady does have your extraordinary features and
elegant demeanor, she does look like a family member.”
“We are family; Jennifer said, then turned to Arabella and asked affectionately,
“Do you like this dress?”
“I have too many dresses already; Arabella didn’t want Jennifer to spend more,
she had already bought her so many things. Anything that was good-looking and
suitable, Jennifer had already bought it for her.
George couldnt even carry all the shopping bags, so he had the driver take a
car full of shopping bags home.
No matter what, she didn’t want Jennifer to buy anymore.
However, the store manager and the employees all said, “Please accept Mrs.
McMillian’s kind gesture.”
“We’ve never seen Mrs. McMillian bring any girl here before, let alone select
clothes for her. She must really like you.”
“Your skin is so fair. Wearing this dress would make you look like a fairy
descended from heaven.”
“If you wear this dress and walk with Mrs. McMillian, everyone can tell that
you’re family.”
In the end, the last comment captured Jennifer’s heart. She generously said, “I’ll
take this one in small.”
“Yes, Mrs. McMillian; The store manager was overjoyed and personally went to
wrap it up.seaChapter 783
“Mrs. McMillian, your taste is impeccable. You’ve picked out the crown jewel of
our store.”
“Mrs. McMillian must really care for you, splurging on such an elegant and
expensive dress for you.”
“I’m so envious.”
“Yes, you are indeed fortunate.”
Compliments flowed around Arabella. After a while, Jennifer had purchased
quite a few items. George, unable to carry any more, called their chauffeur to
Enter title…
ask where he was.
“Alright, I’ll be waiting for you at the entrance.”
After ending the call, George, weighed down by dozens of shopping bags,
turned to Jennifer as he said, “Honey, I’ll bring these bags to Gene first, then I’ll
come back to help you with your shopping.”
“Go ahead,” Jennifer picked a few more dresses, asking Arabella for her
opinion. She seemed intent on buying her the entire store.
Feeling neglected, George was about to take the elevator when a sudden pain
shot through his back, his old ailment flaring up again.
Arabella noticed and excused herself to Jennifer before rushing over to him.
“It’s nothing serious, just my old back acting up. I’m getting old. It’s only normal
for me to have these kinds of problems.”
“I can carry it.”
Looking at George’s arms laden with over thirty shopping bags, Arabella felt
guilty.
“No need, I can handle it; George could never let his daughter-in-law carry the
load.
“But your back.”
“It’s alright, really.”
Just then, a female voice squealed in disbelief, “Arabella?”
Turning around, Arabella saw Yolanda in a young man’s arm, looking at her in
surprise.
“Bella, is this a classmate of yours?” George was about to greet them.
To his surprise, Arabella averted her gaze and said to George, “We’re not close.
Let me carry the bags.”
“But you’re still young, we can’t let you carry these.”
“lL insist.
“No, really, I can.”
Seeing Arabella still being her dismissive self, Yolanda felt a pang of irritation.
“Yoli, is this the sister you’ve mentioned before?”
Gerald had heard Yolanda talk about Arabella before, a woman who enjoyed
being spoiled by older men, using their credit cards to fulfill her vanity, and
scheming to put Yoli’s parents in jail. She was a woman who looked down upon
others and carried an air of arrogance.
He didn’t expect to run into her that day!
“Some people spend their lives relying on men to buy them luxury goods, and
not just any men, but married, older men. Yoli, don’t you think she’s pitiable?”
Gerald added, placing a supportive hand on Yolanda’s shoulder, looking down at
Arabella from his high horse.
Arabella and George were both speechless. Both had the same thought,
“What’s his problem??”
Yolanda didn’t know who that middle-aged man was, but his arms were laden
with dozens of luxury shopping bags, clearly showing he was wealthy.
She didn’t expect Arabella, who she thought had settled down, to be mixing with
an older man, and worse still, extorting him into buying her all those luxury
goods.
Even with Gerald’s decent financial status, he would never buy her so many
items at once.
She didn’t expect that older man to be so generous towards Arabella.
With those thoughts, Yolanda was eaten up with jealousy. Chapter 784
“Arabella, I can’t believe after all this time you’re still so flighty,”
Yolanda feigned shock, “You’re a woman betrothed.”
Couldn’t she ask Romeo to buy whatever she wanted?
Why the need to use other men’s credit cards?
Was it to flaunt her alluring charm?
Or had Romeo grown tired of her and no longer wanted to fund her shopping
sprees?
Enter title…
As she pondered that, Yolanda saw a glimmer of hope. If Romeo took an
interest in her, then she could soon surpass Arabella!
Arabella didn’t expect Yolanda to still be so annoying after their time apart. She
didn’t even bother to look at her, took the shopping bags from George, and left
with him.
Because George had a sore back, Arabella walked slowly.
“My girlfriend is talking to you, are you deaf?” Gerald was quite displeased with
Arabella’s cold demeanor.
So, she was relying on her good looks, huh? She had been played by several
old men, and at that point she was putting on that icy, aloof act.
Did she still think of herself as a pure, innocent maiden?
“Didn’t your parents teach you any manners?” George was quite displeased with
the young ones’ attitude.
But Gerald found that amusing, “What, you’re brave enough to act but scared of
being talked about?”
“What have we done?” George was baffled by the young man’s baseless
accusations.
Arabella interjected, “Uncle, don’t mind him.”
“Did you hear that? She’s calling you ‘uncle’. Aren’t you ashamed of yourself at
your age? Do you know how many men she’s been with before?”
“What did you say?” George’s anger flared, “Say it again!”
He dared to slander his daughter-in-law in front of him.
“I said this woman is like a whore.”
The next second, George’s fist swung hard onto the young man’s face without
any hesitation.
“Damn!” The young man didn’t expect that middle-aged man to lose his temper
and start a fight. Angrily, he retaliated, and they both went at it.
People around them screamed and retreated, and Jennifer, inside the store,
rushed out upon hearing the commotion.
At the same time, the mall manager hurried over with several security guards,
all puzzled by the situation.
But in just a few seconds, George had the young man pinned down, landing
punch after punch, and declared indignantly, “You’re so young and yet your
tongue is so poisonous, what do your parents do? How did they raise such a
scoundrel?”
“Stop, stop!” Yolanda was terrified. She didn’t expect the middle-aged man to be
stronger and more skillful than Gerald.
Gerald was so useless!
Just like any rich boy, he was like a flower in a greenhouse, unable to withstand
any hardship.
He couldn’t even best an old man on the brink of death!
The mall manager was taken aback by that scene and quickly dispersed the
crowd. He bent over to George and respectfully asked, “Mr. McMillian, what’s
the matter?”
“This brat insulted my daughter-in-law, and I intend to deal with him myself.
Everyone else stands aside.”
“Uncle, your back.”
Before Arabella could finish her sentence, George said, “I’m fine, I’m alright.
This brat just mentioned a whore? If he doesn’t need his mouth, I can sew it
shut! He only knows how to spew filth.”
Jennifer, who had just arrived, saw the scene, linked arms with Arabella, and
watched the fight, amused, “Let him have it.”Chapter 785
Arabella didn’t know what to say. She had seen George get the better of Gerald
a while ago, which was why she didn’t intervene.
She was just a bit worried about her future father-in-law’s back.
When Yolanda heard the middle-aged man being addressed as Mr.
McMillian by the mall manager, a sinking feeling began to creep in.
Could it be, was he Romeo’s father??
Just a moment ago, that man was accusing Gerald of being disrespectful
towards his daughter-in-law.
Enter title…
So, it turned out Arabella wasn’t with some older man but was accompanying
her future father-in-law shopping. Standing shoulder to shoulder with Arabella,
hand in hand, was her future mother-in-law?
Thinking that way, Yolanda felt doomed. Gerald’s family background was no
match for the McMillians.
She was really done for that time!
Just as she was planning to sneak away, she was quickly spotted by Arabella.
Arabella gave the mall manager a quick glance and ordered, “Don’t let her go.”
“My daughter-in-law wants you to catch someone, what are you waiting for?”
Jennifer chimed in.
Yolanda, overcome with fear, started running. But even as she sprinted with all
her might, she was quickly restrained by a few security guards. She started
yelling, “It’s not my fault.”
At that moment, Gerald was beaten to a pulp, barely hanging on.
George quickly discovered his background. He came from a family that owned a
garment factory. What was so special about that?
“I don’t see any need for that shabby factory to continue existing.”
George, panting after the fight, said to someone over the phone, “Short it, make
it go bankrupt.”
Having said that, he gave Gerald another kick, “Haven’t you apologized to my
daughter-in-law yet?”
Gerald, already on the brink of collapse, saw Yolanda trying to escape but being
dragged back, still insisting it wasn’t her fault.
Gerald suddenly realized that he had loved the wrong person.
“Yes, I’m sorry.’ Gerald weakly said, “Il, heard she’s been involved with several
older men.”
“You dare to continue with that made up story?” George threatened, raising his
hand to hit him again.
Gerald, terrified, instinctively used his hand to shield his head.
“Surely, you’re the one who spread these rumors? You know my daughter-inlaw? Yet you deliberately slander her,’ Jennifer, who was Standing by, coldly
stared at Yolanda, “What does your family do?”
“She’s the Yolanda I told you about before,’ Arabella added.
“Oh, so you’re the bad girl.” Jennifer realized, “Take her away, treat her well”
“Yes The mall manager immediately instructed a few security guards to take
them away.
“Bella, are you alright?” Jennifer finally checked on her daughter-in-law.
“I’m fine, but as for uncle.”
“Oh, my back.” George suddenly half-collapsed onto Jennifer, “Honey, it hurts,
could you rub it for me.”
Jennifer fell silent for a moment. Jennifer could tell he was faking it, but
considering he had stood up for their precious daughter-in-law, she still rubbed
his back a few times.
Arabella couldn’t help but grin. She was about to pick up the dozens of shopping
bags on the floor when the mall manager had someone help, even taking the
bag from her hand, “We’ll take care of these small matters. I’m truly sorry for
what happened in the mall under my management.”
“It’s good that you know!” Jennifer glanced at him, “From now on, don’t let them
in.”
“Yes, I got it.”
George was still half-leaning on his wife, but reluctant to put pressure on her,
simply enjoying that moment of bliss.
“I feel much better after you rubbed my back.”
“SO many people are watching, aren’t you embarrassed?”
“My back hurts, and you are helping me, why would I be embarrassed.” Chapter 785
Arabella didn’t know what to say. She had seen George get the better of Gerald
a while ago, which was why she didn’t intervene.
She was just a bit worried about her future father-in-law’s back.
When Yolanda heard the middle-aged man being addressed as Mr.
McMillian by the mall manager, a sinking feeling began to creep in.
Could it be, was he Romeo’s father??
Just a moment ago, that man was accusing Gerald of being disrespectful
towards his daughter-in-law.
Enter title…
So, it turned out Arabella wasn’t with some older man but was accompanying
her future father-in-law shopping. Standing shoulder to shoulder with Arabella,
hand in hand, was her future mother-in-law?
Thinking that way, Yolanda felt doomed. Gerald’s family background was no
match for the McMillians.
She was really done for that time!
Just as she was planning to sneak away, she was quickly spotted by Arabella.
Arabella gave the mall manager a quick glance and ordered, “Don’t let her go.”
“My daughter-in-law wants you to catch someone, what are you waiting for?”
Jennifer chimed in.
Yolanda, overcome with fear, started running. But even as she sprinted with all
her might, she was quickly restrained by a few security guards. She started
yelling, “It’s not my fault.”
At that moment, Gerald was beaten to a pulp, barely hanging on.
George quickly discovered his background. He came from a family that owned a
garment factory. What was so special about that?
“I don’t see any need for that shabby factory to continue existing.”
George, panting after the fight, said to someone over the phone, “Short it, make
it go bankrupt.”
Having said that, he gave Gerald another kick, “Haven’t you apologized to my
daughter-in-law yet?”
Gerald, already on the brink of collapse, saw Yolanda trying to escape but being
dragged back, still insisting it wasn’t her fault.
Gerald suddenly realized that he had loved the wrong person.
“Yes, I’m sorry.’ Gerald weakly said, “Il, heard she’s been involved with several
older men.”
“You dare to continue with that made up story?” George threatened, raising his
hand to hit him again.
Gerald, terrified, instinctively used his hand to shield his head.
“Surely, you’re the one who spread these rumors? You know my daughter-inlaw? Yet you deliberately slander her,’ Jennifer, who was Standing by, coldly
stared at Yolanda, “What does your family do?”
“She’s the Yolanda I told you about before,’ Arabella added.
“Oh, so you’re the bad girl.” Jennifer realized, “Take her away, treat her well”
“Yes The mall manager immediately instructed a few security guards to take
them away.
“Bella, are you alright?” Jennifer finally checked on her daughter-in-law.
“I’m fine, but as for uncle.”
“Oh, my back.” George suddenly half-collapsed onto Jennifer, “Honey, it hurts,
could you rub it for me.”
Jennifer fell silent for a moment. Jennifer could tell he was faking it, but
considering he had stood up for their precious daughter-in-law, she still rubbed
his back a few times.
Arabella couldn’t help but grin. She was about to pick up the dozens of shopping
bags on the floor when the mall manager had someone help, even taking the
bag from her hand, “We’ll take care of these small matters. I’m truly sorry for
what happened in the mall under my management.”
“It’s good that you know!” Jennifer glanced at him, “From now on, don’t let them
in.”
“Yes, I got it.”
George was still half-leaning on his wife, but reluctant to put pressure on her,
simply enjoying that moment of bliss.
“I feel much better after you rubbed my back.”
“SO many people are watching, aren’t you embarrassed?”
“My back hurts, and you are helping me, why would I be embarrassed.” Chapter 786
Reflections Mansion.
Kenneth and Louisa were utterly shocked upon hearing that George had lost his
temper and hit someone in defense of Bella.
In their eyes, George was not a man prone to anger or violence, especially not
in public.
“That just goes to show how much Mr. McMillian cherishes his daughter-in-law,
Bella. He can’t bear to see her treated unfairly; Edith, their housekeeper, said
with a grin, “Bella is truly blessed to have such caring in-laws.”
Enter title…
“I heard that a couple of days ago, Jennifer even stood up for Bella and put the
Evert family’s daughter in her place,’ Louisa added, feeling a wave of emotion. It
was clear to her that George and Jennifer saw Bella as their own daughter and
went to great lengths to protect her.
With such in-laws, she was confident that Bella would lead a happy life in the
future.
“They’re coming over tonight. Edith, have you prepared everything I asked for?”
Louisa suddenly asked.
George and Jennifer were to visit that evening on Bella’s behalf.
Jennifer had arranged to go shopping with Bella to not only buy her things but
also to pick out gifts for Kenneth and Louisa.
However, Louisa was unaware of that.
“Madam, everything is ready;’ Edith answered, smiling, “The house has been
thoroughly cleaned, fresh flowers have been placed in the vases, and there’s no
shortage of pastries and fruits. We’re just waiting for their arrival.”
“Good, good,’ Louisa glanced at the clock, noting that they had two hours left
until the agreed meeting time. She was filled with anticipation.
At that moment, Serena entered the gate of Reflections Mansion, noticing the
considerable changes in and around the house. The garden was adorned with a
variety of new flowers, each blooming vibrantly.
“Serena, you’re finally here; Martha pulled her aside and whispered, “Have you
decided on the piece for tonight’s performance? And your dress? Do you need
my help?”
“Martha, I’m not here to steal the spotlight,’ Serena said, revealing her true
intentions to her, “I’m on vacation and I missed my parents, so I decided to stay
here for a few days. After I greet everyone tonight, I’ll just go to my room. I don’t
want to disturb them.”
“Serena, you’re still as stubborn as ever!” Martha exclaimed in frustration. She
was disappointed to see that Serena had changed so much ever since she was
frightened by an incident with Chasel and Myrna Gellar.
This evening presented a rare opportunity. If she could impress Romeo’s
parents, becoming the future daughter-in-law of the McMillian family wouldn’t be
a problem!
After all, even if Romeo loved Bella, could he really go against his parent’s
wishes and marry her directly?
“Mr. and Mrs. McMillian have watched you grow up all these years.
They surely feel more affection for you than for Bella.”
Yet, she was doing nothing on her behalf to grab that golden opportunity!
“Martha, didn’t you just say in our WhatsApp group that Mr. George and Jennifer
have already taken Bella’s side twice? They must really like her. I don’t want to
waste my time or compete anymore. There are plenty of men in the world
besides Romeo. Worst case scenario, I’ll remain single forever.”
“But he’s the best, the most capable, the most protective, and the most
deserving of you!” Martha said passionately, her voice heavy, “Serena, I’ve
watched you grow day by day. I truly can’t bear to see you fall from the pedestal
of a golden girl to an ordinary citizen.
Can you understand my feelings?”
Just then, Serena noticed Bella entering through the mansion gate.
“Alright, Martha, let’s leave it at that. I’m going to my room now: “Serena,
Serena.’ Martha called after her, frustrated by her nonchalance.
Just as Serena was about to climb the steps to the main building, she heard
Martha yelp. Turning back, she saw Bella standing coldly beside Martha, who
had fallen to the ground.
Rushing over, Serena helped Martha up, asking, “Martha? Are you alright? Did
you hurt yourself?”,Chapter 787
“Serena, it’s okay, I’m just getting old and clumsy. I lost my footing.
It’s not a big deal,’ Martha’s knees were scraped raw, and bruised.
From the sidelines, Arabella watched Martha’s poor performance and coldly
added, “Not only are you getting old, but your acting has gone downhill too, not
what it used to be.”
Martha didn’t expect Arabella to be so sharp-tongued. Suddenly, she groaned in
pain, clutching her waist.
Enter title…
“Is your back hurting?” Serena immediately became concerned, “Let me help
you inside to get some ointment, see if you can stand up.”
“Serena, don’t worry about me, I’m fine, ouch, it hurts,’ Martha managed to
stand up with Serena’s help, groaning in pain all the while.
Arabella, tired of watching her act, strode towards the house with her long legs.
“Arabella!” Serena couldn’t help but stop her, wanting to say something but
hesitating, finally blurting out, “What the hell happened?”
“She fell on her own.”
Arabella dropped that sentence as if she didn’t want to waste time with them
and walked up the steps into the main house.
Serena bit her lower lip, seemingly unconvinced.
“I’ve already told you; I fell on my own; Martha feigned again.
“But you were walking just fine on a flat and wide path, how could you fall like
this?”
“Serena, I don’t know how to explain. It’s okay if I suffer a bit, I mainly worry
about you,’ Martha slowly moved towards the side house, “Oh, forget it, if
people didn’t know better, they might think I was teaching you to be a bad
person.”
Serena didn’t say anything, just quietly helped her walk, already holding some
resentment towards Arabella in her heart.
“You’re already eighteen, there are some things you need to learn to judge for
yourself, Martha was helped to the side house door, “Alright, this is far enough, I
can go in on my own.”
“I can get some ointment for you.”
“No need, Gloria can help me.”
Serena watched her stumble away, thinking to herself that Martha was too old to
hurt herself on purpose just to slander a teenage girl, especially when she fell so
hard on the ground.
She was more excited than anyone about George and Jennifer’s arrival that
night. If she intentionally hurt herself, she wouldn’t be able to show her face in
front of them.
Given Martha’s nature, she would definitely praise Serena to George and
Jennifer, she wouldn’t miss that opportunity for the world.
But Arabella’s demeanor at that moment didn’t seem like she was lying.
Given Arabella’s nature, if she did it on purpose, she would surely admit it.
So, what really happened there?
However, after weighing everything, Serena still trusted Martha more, thinking
that Arabella must have pushed or bumped Martha.
The reason being that Martha had just been whispering to her, which Arabella
saw when she had returned.
It’s possible that Arabella was taking that opportunity for revenge.
At that moment, Serena’s phone vibrated again. When she looked at it, she was
stunned.Chapter 788
“Oh, by the way, the outfit that your parents are wearing today was a gift from
Arabella, and yours,’ Martha added once again, “you might want to take a look
at the seasonal wardrobe.”
The seasonal wardrobe, as the name implies, was where the unwanted and
unused clothes were temporarily stored. After a while, some of the better pieces
would be picked out for donation, a kind of charitable act.
The wardrobe was packed to the brim, taking up a massive space.
It was teeming with clothes, too many to count.
Enter title…
Serena could hardly contain her surprise. When she went to take a look, she
found her carefully selected pieces, some of which she had even paid a pretty
penny for a designer to tailor specifically for her parents, all shoved to the back.
They were not worn, not even once!
She felt a pang of disappointment.
Tonight, Romeo’s parents were coming over. Her beloved parents were wearing
the designs of Arabella and not the ones she gave them. Did this mean they
thought her gifts were not up to the mark?
“Serena, have you noticed that your fate is quite similar to these clothes?
Initially, you thought you could catch your parents”
attention, but it turned out that they didn’t even give those clothes a second
look.”
Serena’s eyes dimmed.
Meanwhile, a glint of complacence flashed in Martha’s eyes.
Yesterday, she had told Kenneth and Louisa that she would take Serena’s
clothes to be ironed. With their consent, she secretly moved these brand-new
pieces to the seasonal wardrobe, intending to let Serena see and
misunderstand.
The clothes Serena gave this time were mainly black and white. To avoid being
found out, she took a few black and white pieces that Serena had given to
Kenneth and Louisa half a year ago, tried to make them look worn and old, and
asked if they wanted to keep them.
Naturally, they wouldn’t wear such clothes and allowed her to move them to the
seasonal wardrobe, intending to donate them.
Later, Serena hesitated before going downstairs. Louisa was arranging flowers,
and Serena casually struck up a conversation, pretending nothing was amiss.
After a while, she finally asked, “Mom, I was just moving some old clothes to the
seasonal wardrobe, and I noticed those black and white pieces I gave you.
Don’t you like them?”
“Oh.” Louisa suddenly remembered what Martha had said and gave her a
smiling glance, “The design is nice, but we can’t wear them anymore, dear.
You’re very thoughtful, but don’t spend so much on clothes for us in the future.”
Serena pressed, “Why can’t you wear them?”
“Well, the color isn’t quite right. They don’t look good on.” Louisa was puzzled by
her daughter’s questioning.
The color wasn’t right.
They didn’t look good on.
Serena pondered for a moment and then it clicked.
Of course, black and white symbolized ill fortune. They couldn’t wear these
colors for such an occasion.
But, they could save those clothes for later, right? There was no need to move
them to the seasonal wardrobe.
She looked again at Louisa’s beautiful dress. That was the color of celebration,
wasn’t it?
Finally, Serena accepted the truth. Martha wasn’t lying. Her parents really did
this.
They had thrown her heartfelt gifts into the seasonal wardrobe.
Earlier in the seasonal wardrobe, she had even seen many of her favorite
pieces, discarded without her knowledge.Chapter 789
Martha said it was her parents’ command.
Could this household not accommodate both her and her clothing?
She refrained from asking further, exchanged a few words, and then she
ascended the stairs. Her retreating figure was somewhat dim and forlorn.
As Louisa arranged some flowers, she couldn’t shake off the feeling that
something was off with Serena today. Could it be that Serena was upset
because she had worn the dress gifted by Arabella instead of the one she had
given her?
Enter title…
With this thought, Louisa dialed Martha’s number again, “Martha, have you
ironed the clothes Serena gifted us?”
“Madam, are you referring to the recent batch from Serena? She gifts us quite a
number of clothes. Since they’re of fine quality, I didn’t want to ruin them by
ironing them myself. I’ve spoken to the professional ironing service you usually
use. They’ve agreed to take care of all the clothes Serena sent, but they’re a bit
busy, so they haven’t gotten to them just yet.”
Louisa was taken aback by this turn of events, “In that case, don’t bother ironing
them. Serena’s on leave these days and I’d like to wear some of them.”
“Madam, I’ve already sent them to the ironing company. Should I retrieve them?
I thought it would be best to get them ironed since the McMillians visit often. If
you want, I can fetch them right away.
Oh my.” Martha pretended to wince in pain.
Alarmed, Louisa quickly asked, “Martha, what happened?”
Martha chuckled, “Nothing serious. I just took a tumble today.”
“Oh? When did this happen? Where did you fall? Are you okay? Have you seen
a doctor?” Louisa’s concern overpowered any suspicions she might have had.
“No worries, it’s just old age catching up. In a couple of years, I’ll need to retire.”
When Serena’s glamorous wedding took place and her identity became public,
why would she continue as a housekeeper, enduring such humiliation!
She would quit and move in with Serena.
Louisa was reluctant to let her go, expressing her gratitude for Martha’s hard
work before ending the call.
The issue with the clothes wasn’t urgent. Louisa advised Martha to rest, and
Martha proceeded to text Serena via WhatsApp. After she found no
discrepancies on Serena’s end, her spirits lifted.
At 8 PM.
A jubilant servant announced, “The McMillians are here, and they’ve brought a
ton of stuff!!”
Merely the greeting gifts required eighteen bodyguards to carry them in, leaving
everyone stunned with their extravagance.
Kenneth and Louisa were about to welcome them when Edith swiftly ushered
George and Jennifer inside.
“Kenneth, long time no see.” George warmly greeted Kenneth, shaking his hand
and giving him a gentlemanly hug, chuckling, “I’ve been over the moon these
days.”
“Jennifer, you finally decided to grace us with your presence! It’s been ages
since we saw you last!”
“Oh, Jennifer’s been pampered by her husband.” Kenneth jested.
“I must say you two look younger, revitalized by your daughter’s return.” Jennifer
praised them, and the four of them invited each other to sit down.
The eighteen bodyguards carried in all the gifts, arranging them neatly on one
side.
“Oh my, Jennifer, anyone who didn’t know better would think you were here to
propose a marriage, bringing all these gifts.”Chapter 789
Martha said it was her parents’ command.
Could this household not accommodate both her and her clothing?
She refrained from asking further, exchanged a few words, and then she
ascended the stairs. Her retreating figure was somewhat dim and forlorn.
As Louisa arranged some flowers, she couldn’t shake off the feeling that
something was off with Serena today. Could it be that Serena was upset
because she had worn the dress gifted by Arabella instead of the one she had
given her?
Enter title…
With this thought, Louisa dialed Martha’s number again, “Martha, have you
ironed the clothes Serena gifted us?”
“Madam, are you referring to the recent batch from Serena? She gifts us quite a
number of clothes. Since they’re of fine quality, I didn’t want to ruin them by
ironing them myself. I’ve spoken to the professional ironing service you usually
use. They’ve agreed to take care of all the clothes Serena sent, but they’re a bit
busy, so they haven’t gotten to them just yet.”
Louisa was taken aback by this turn of events, “In that case, don’t bother ironing
them. Serena’s on leave these days and I’d like to wear some of them.”
“Madam, I’ve already sent them to the ironing company. Should I retrieve them?
I thought it would be best to get them ironed since the McMillians visit often. If
you want, I can fetch them right away.
Oh my.” Martha pretended to wince in pain.
Alarmed, Louisa quickly asked, “Martha, what happened?”
Martha chuckled, “Nothing serious. I just took a tumble today.”
“Oh? When did this happen? Where did you fall? Are you okay? Have you seen
a doctor?” Louisa’s concern overpowered any suspicions she might have had.
“No worries, it’s just old age catching up. In a couple of years, I’ll need to retire.”
When Serena’s glamorous wedding took place and her identity became public,
why would she continue as a housekeeper, enduring such humiliation!
She would quit and move in with Serena.
Louisa was reluctant to let her go, expressing her gratitude for Martha’s hard
work before ending the call.
The issue with the clothes wasn’t urgent. Louisa advised Martha to rest, and
Martha proceeded to text Serena via WhatsApp. After she found no
discrepancies on Serena’s end, her spirits lifted.
At 8 PM.
A jubilant servant announced, “The McMillians are here, and they’ve brought a
ton of stuff!!”
Merely the greeting gifts required eighteen bodyguards to carry them in, leaving
everyone stunned with their extravagance.
Kenneth and Louisa were about to welcome them when Edith swiftly ushered
George and Jennifer inside.
“Kenneth, long time no see.” George warmly greeted Kenneth, shaking his hand
and giving him a gentlemanly hug, chuckling, “I’ve been over the moon these
days.”
“Jennifer, you finally decided to grace us with your presence! It’s been ages
since we saw you last!”
“Oh, Jennifer’s been pampered by her husband.” Kenneth jested.
“I must say you two look younger, revitalized by your daughter’s return.” Jennifer
praised them, and the four of them invited each other to sit down.
The eighteen bodyguards carried in all the gifts, arranging them neatly on one
side.
“Oh my, Jennifer, anyone who didn’t know better would think you were here to
propose a marriage, bringing all these gifts.”Chapter 790
“Who arrives for a proposal so casually? But Bella’s really won me over,
Jennifer said, adding with a chuckle, “And not just me, George is quite taken
with her too.”
“Jennifer is spot on with that. It’s not just us, even the elders at home are quite
fond of her. She’s smart, beautiful, modest, and talented. She’s an artist,
calligrapher, pianist, and brand founder.
Honestly, the list just goes on,’ George laughed.
Jennifer chimed in, “And I heard she topped the national college entrance
examination! Louisa, you and Kenneth certainly know how to raise a brilliant
Enter title…
child!”
Kenneth and Louisa were taken aback. An artist and calligrapher?
When did this happen? Why didn’t they know?
“You said Bella is an artist?” Kenneth couldn’t help but ask.
“Calligrapher?” Louisa was equally surprised.
After their questions, they both turned their gaze towards Arabella, who was
coming downstairs, in complete astonishment.
When did their daughter acquire these new talents?
Arabella hadn’t expected to be revealed as soon as she came downstairs after
her shower, let alone that George and Jennifer would arrive early. She politely
greeted everyone present.
“Bella, you’re here!” Jennifer’s eyes were full of admiration and satisfaction as
she looked at her future daughter-in-law, casually dressed and looking
gorgeous. Jennifer couldn’t help but adore her.
“Come sit here.” Jennifer affectionately pulled Arabella to sit next to her.
After greeting Arabella, George turned to Kenneth and asked, “Didn’t you know
that? About Bella being Mirabelle.”
Mirabelle’s exceptional painting skills were renowned in the art world.
With her exquisite brush strokes, fluid style, and imaginative creativity, she had
single-handedly elevated the entire art world.
Each of her works embodied the perfect blend of form and spirit, radiating a
vibrant charm.
She was revered as a master in the art world.
“Don’t you have one of her paintings hanging there?” George pointed to a
painting on the wall, another masterpiece.
That was a painting Kenneth had won a year ago at an auction. He had found
the painting so captivating that he paid ten million dollars for it and hung it in the
living room.
But he had no idea that the painting was his daughter’s work.
His daughter had been home for quite some time but had never mentioned that
the painting on the wall was her creation.
This girl was far too modest!
In truth, Arabella wasn’t modest. When she didn’t know Kenneth and had
someone auction her painting, she had asked for an exorbitant price.
She had felt a twinge of guilt when she saw the painting later.
Suddenly, Kenneth remembered something else. On the day his daughter came
home, her gaze had briefly rested on the painting.
It was a renowned piece by the famous painter Mirabelle. Bella had suggested
then that he hang it in the study.
Thinking about it now, Kenneth found that the antique painting did look a bit out
of place among the modern art pieces in the living room.
Her suggestion to hang it in the study, where it would complement the other
pieces, was indeed apt.
She must have recognized it at first glance. Such discerning eyes.
“And Bella is also the calligrapher Labella.” Jennifer started talking about how
they had met her future daughter-in-law, growing more and more delighted.
Kenneth and Louisa hadn’t expected their daughter to have so many aliases,
nor that she would not only save her future mother-in-law by a twist of fate but
also win over the hearts of her future in-laws.Chapter 791
Fate was truly remarkable.
At that moment, Serena, fresh from a friendly gathering, had just reached the
entrance of the main building when she heard praises for Arabella’s talents. She
stood there, utterly flabbergasted.
She could hardly believe that the calligrapher, Labella, whom she had admired
for more than two years, was actually Arabella!
What’s more, all the paintings that she had tried so hard but failed to acquire
were all created by Arabella.
Enter title…
Arabella was Mirabelle.
She was not only a renowned painter, but also a famous calligrapher!
Why did Arabella have so many identities?
She was barely regarded in the Murphy family since she was a child.
Yet each of her identities could easily outshine Serena by a large margin.
Serena stood at the door for a long time, caught in a whirlwind of emotions. It
was only when Edith, who was delivering pastries, passed by and called her that
she came back to her senses.
Walking into the living room with a smile she had practiced over the years, she
greeted everyone present with the grace of a rich young lady.
“Serena, you’re back.” Jennifer looked at Serena with a warm dignified smile.
She had been neutral towards Serena before, neither liking nor disliking her.
Now, she greeted her amicably upon her return.
George also looked at Serena, asking with a cheerful smile, “Been out having
fun?”
“Mr. George, Jennifer, it’s been a while. Yes, I was out with some friends. Just
got back.”
Serena responded with a smile, extending her greetings to them before turning
to her family with a graceful smile.
“Dad, Mom, sis, you guys carry on. I am going upstairs to shower.
Mr. George, Jennifer, please excuse me.”
Her every move was elegant and refined, showing no signs of anything amiss.
“Alright,” Jennifer noted that Serena seemed quite calm. It appeared that the
betrothal didn’t affect her much.
After all, having been pampered for eighteen years in the Collins family and
raised with good manners, she should know how to handle herself.
With that thought, Jennifer didn’t dwell on it.
“About Serena?” George looked at Kenneth, seeming to hesitate.
“Serena is a sensible child. She knows not to demand what isn’t hers. It’s all my
fault. If I had been more careful and cautious back then, we wouldn’t have had
such a big mix-up, forcing the two girls to bear burdens they shouldn’t have.”
Kenneth felt a deep sense of guilt, particularly towards Arabella.
Although Serena was not their biological child, she had been pampered in the
Collins family for eighteen years without experiencing hardship.
But Bella was different. The Murphy family rose to wealth later, and Bella had
suffered a lot growing up there. Her talents were honed through hard work and
diligence.
Not just Kenneth, but the entire Collins family owed Bella too much.
“It’s fate. Now that Bella is back, there will only be more laughter in this house.”
George smoothly changed the topic with a smile.
At this moment, a servant came to report, “Mr. and Mrs. Collins, Mr.
McMillian has arrived.”
Romeo, dressed in a well-tailored suit, exuded a noble aura. As soon as he
entered, he explained, “Mr. and Mrs. Collins, I’m sorry for being late. There was
a last-minute issue.”Chapter 792
He turned to Arabella again, “You all set?”
“Yeah.” Arabella didn’t blame him, he was busy after all, and being busy was a
good thing.
“No worries, you don’t have to be on schedule when you come to visit us. It’s not
like you’re clocking in at work.” Kenneth laughed as he looked at his son-in-law,
the more he looked at him, the more satisfied he was. “Please have a seat.”
Romeo walked up to Jennifer, “Mom, come and sit with Dad.”
Enter title…
“You men sit together, and we women will sit together.” Jennifer held Arabella’s
hand tightly, seemingly reluctant to give up her spot.
Romeo looked at their closely held hands, “If you sit so close, Bella might feel
uncomfortable.”
“Who says that? We’ve been shopping and strolling arm in arm lately.”
Romeo was speechless.
“It’s okay, the couch is spacious. You can sit here.” It was Arabella who spoke
up.
Romeo’s eyes instantly lit up, as if to say “My fiancee loves me more.”
Arabella saw the laughter hidden in his eyes and couldn’t help but chuckle.
Really?
Romeo sat to the right of Arabella, while Jennifer sat to her left.
George sat alone on the opposite couch, which was meant for two, feeling oddly
lonely.
Louisa watched this scene unfold, and smiled. She asked Edith to bring more
pastries and coffee.
“Louisa, you’re too kind! How did you prepare so much?” Jennifer looked at the
table full of fruit, pastries, and coffee, a mix of amusement and disbelief. “I’m
going to gain ten pounds after this.”
“No need to fuss next time. We’re just here to hang out.” George explained with
a laugh. “We’ve been abroad for a while so we didn’t have time to come visit.”
“I saw your Facebook, you’ve been to some beautiful places, so where do you
plan to go next?” Louisa casually asked a question that Romeo was dying to
know the answer to.
Romeo’s gaze naturally fell on his father, waiting for an answer.
George laughed, “Ever since we found out Bella is our daughter-in-law, we can’t
bear to leave. We want to spend more time with her, especially Jennifer. She’s
changed our itinerary so many times, and we don’t have any plans to travel
anymore.”
Romeo was shocked.
No Way!
He totally couldn’t accept that!!
“We come to tell you that we’re very pleased with Bella. We not only approve of
this marriage, we hope it happens as soon as possible.
Of course, the exact timing depends on Bella.” Jennifer said, casting an
affectionate glance at Arabella. If Bella didn’t want to get engaged and wanted to
wait till after graduation to get married, that was fine too.
Arabella chuckled, “It won’t be so soon.”
“Bella is still young.’ Louisa explained with a smile. Even though she was eager
to see the two of them get married, her daughter’s opinion was still the most
important.
“No rush. We just wanted to express our stance, mainly because we like Bella
so much.” Jennifer looked at Arabella again, “Take this time to test Romeo a
little. Don’t let him off so easily.”
Romeo was in dumb silence.
Every other couple’s parents were supportive, except his.
Not only were they not supportive, they were actually holding him back.
Arabella laughed and looked at Romeo, “Alright.”
Romeo thought, ” Not alright!”
“I guarantee that now and in the future, every member of the McMillian family
will never mistreat Bella. Jennifer and I will treat her as our own daughter. We
will cherish her for a lifetime.” George also took this opportunity to express his
sincerity. Chapter 793
Standing on the second floor, Serena felt as if she were rooted to the spot,
unable to take another step.
She hadn’t expected George and Jennifer to be so taken with Arabella, nor had
she anticipated their words of praise.
It was hard to deny that Arabella was truly blessed!
She had just returned to the McMillian family and was immediately showered
with affection from her newfound parents and five brothers. From Grandpa
Phillip to the house staff, everyone seemed to adore her deeply.
Enter title…
Arabella was like a shining star, her brilliance causing twinges of pain in the
hearts of those who watched from the sidelines.
Serena felt as though she had been abandoned by the world, alone and
helpless.
She looked at the happy families below. Once, she had dreamed of a future like
this.
But now, Arabella was the leading lady, and she had been relegated to a mere
spectator.
Meanwhile, Martha, who was resting in her room, heard from one of the maids
that Serena had been standing on the second floor for a long time, seemingly
crying and wiping away her tears in silence.
Having watched Serena grow up over the years, Martha understood her feelings
well. She quickly sent someone to comfort Serena.
Debby, who always followed Martha’s orders, quickly appeared with a change of
clothes for Serena, feigning surprise, “Serena, what’s wrong?”
Serena quickly covered her mouth, “Shush.”
Luckily, the people downstairs burst into laughter, their loud guffaws covering
any noises from the second floor.
Seeing Debby holding her change of clothes, Serena remembered that she was
supposed to take a bath, but she had been standing alone on the second floor
for what seemed like forever.
Was it because Arabella’s happiness was too dazzling? Or was it because she
felt so lonely after being abandoned by the world?
“Serena, have you been crying?” Debby asked, looking at her red eyes, “All of
this should have been yours.”
Serena shook her head, “Arabella is the real lady of the family. I was just
mistaken: “Serena, the etiquette education you have received since childhood
has made you a noble lady. You are way better than Ms. Bella in terms of
characteristics, taste and aesthetics, Ms. Bella is just.”
Debby didn’t finish her sentence. Instead, she apologized, “I’m sorry, Serena. It
was out of place for me to say that.”
She handed Serena the clothes and respectfully retreated, leaving Serena with
more to ponder.
When George and Jennifer finished their visit and were ready to return home,
Kenneth and Louisa escorted them to the door, returning their gifts.
Arabella wasn’t sure when her parents had prepared these gifts, but she could
tell that both families valued her highly.
“Louisa, this is too much. We can’t accept them;’ Jennifer protested.
Louisa, however, insisted that her staff load the gifts into their car, “These are
tokens of our appreciation. You must accept them.”
Listening to their parents call each other in-laws and argue over the gifts,
Arabella was left in awe. In the end, Louisa won, returning most of their gifts and
keeping only a few.
Romeo then politely said, “You should rest early. I’ll take Bella back to school.”
But it seemed that Jennifer didn’t believe him.Chapter 794
Word on the street was that Romeo had bought a mansion near the university
district, and he was often seen there. One didn’t need to be a genius to figure
out what was happening.
But she didn’t call him out. Instead, she smiled and said to Louisa, “Let’s plan
another get-together soon, okay?”
“Sure.” Louisa’s smile was so wide it almost split her face. “You two should get
some rest. Romeo, take good care of Bella, won’t you?”
“No problem at all.”
Enter title…
Even though it was vacation time, Bella had many responsibilities.
There might be other things waiting for her at the university. Louisa didn’t pry
into her daughter’s schedule but watched them drive off with maternal love in
her eyes.
“Honey, I think George and Jennifer are really treating Bella like their own
daughter, Kenneth mused as he watched them leave, feeling a sense of relief
for their daughter’s future.
“But doesn’t it feel a bit like our daughter just visited us and is now heading back
to her in-laws? Do you feel it too?”
“Our daughter is grown up and will get married eventually.” While Louisa was
reluctant to let go, she knew that every generation would have its own
blessings. It was futile to dwell on it. “Let’s go in.”
In the following days, whenever Jennifer came across amusing jokes or videos
on the internet, she would share them with Arabella and they would have a good
laugh together.
After the vacation, Jennifer would often cook delicious meals and deliver them
to Arabella at her university. They would walk around the campus together, hand
in hand.
Jennifer would consult Arabella about everything, from what dress to wear to a
dinner party, to the color of her nail polish, and even her hairdo. Sometimes, she
would take Arabella out with her, treating her like a best friend.
Arabella would often receive notifications about large transfers from Jennifer. If
Arabella refused, Jennifer would nag her until she accepted.
Every time Arabella accepted the money, Jennifer would feel overjoyed. She
believed that Arabella saw her as family. If Arabella refused, Jennifer would feel
that shel was being too distant.
Time flew by and autumn arrived in the blink of an eye.
The campus was filled with students dressed in long-sleeved shirts and pants.
One day, while Arabella was in the university laboratory, Louisa called.
“Sweetie, your grandma has finally woken up! I’ll pick you up from the university
and we can go to the hospital together.”
“Okay.”
Arabella remembered her mother telling her that her grandparents loved outdoor
activities. Once, during a hiking trip, her grandmother had slipped and fallen
down several steps. Her grandfather had tried to catch her, hurting himself in the
process.
Both were in a deep coma when they were rushed to the hospital.
The CT scans had shown cranial fractures, brain injuries, and multiple fractures
throughout their bodies. Her grandfather’s condition was worse, with fluid in his
chest and intracranial hemorrhage. They were in critical condition with a high
risk of permanent disability or death.
Despite extensive medical efforts, their condition remained critical, and they had
to stay in the ICU.
During her last visit to the hospital with her parents, Arabella had taken their
pulse discreetly and found out about their condition.
The doctors had chosen a conservative approach because of their old age and
the lack of a guaranteed successful treatment. Thus, they had missed the best
window for treatment.
After taking their pulses, Arabella realized that their bodies were weak and the
brain injuries had severely damaged their central nervous system. They also
had respiratory infections, anemia, and electrolyte imbalance, requiring multiple
medications.
Basic IV therapy wouldn’t be enough.
Due to Serena’s presence, Arabella didn’t reveal that she was Dr.
Bell, but instead claimed to know a famous doctor who had the medicine for
their condition.
Upon hearing this, Kenneth and Louisa were overjoyed and urged her to contact
the doctor. Thus, Arabella started treating her grandparents more aggressively.
But thenChapter 795
She needed medication, one of them being special tranquilizers, which were
particularly beneficial for treating brain damage.
Tranquilizers were hard to come by and took several days to extract. At that
time, Kelly Piper had managed to get a hold of a tranquilizer pill in Northshire for
them. But due to an unfortunate series of events, it ended up under David’s
shoe and got crushed.
If they had taken the tranquilizer at that time, they could’ve recovered within a
month, instead of prolonging the situation…
Enter title…
Arabella finished her experiment. She recorded the data, grabbed her coat, and
said goodbye to Grandpa Beck. Then she left the lab.
Aiden pulled up at the school to pick her up.
Louisa saw Arabella, rolled down her window, and could hardly contain her
excitement. “Bella, get in quickly.”
Both Arabella’s grandparents had been unconscious for several months, and
finally, one of them woke up. Louisa was overjoyed.
After Arabella got in the car, Louisa cheerfully said, “Bella, call your friend. I
want to thank her personally.”
Arabella was stunned.
For the past three months, Arabella had been taking the medicine to the
hospital, so nobody had seen her so-called friend.
“Do you know that your grandparents were in a much more serious condition
than Phillip? Many doctors were helpless. Your friend is amazing, just three
months of treatment and your grandma woke up!”
Although Grandpa hadn’t woken up yet, looking at the situation, Arabella thought
it shouldn’t be far off.
“Oh right, did she accept the last payment? Did she find it insufficient?” Louisa
produced a card loaded with two hundred million dollars. “If it’s not enough, I
have more.”
As she spoke, she was about to pull out another card from her bag.
Arabella hurriedly said, “No need, she didn’t charge for the consultation.”
What?
Louisa was a bit stunned. This person was a well-known doctor, treating two
elderly people for three months without charging a single penny?
Why would she do that?
Seeing her daughter about to say something but hesitating, Louisa suddenly
guessed something and asked incredulously, “The so-called friend wouldn’t
happen to be you, would it?”
Arabella knew she couldn’t hide it any longer and just nodded.
Louisa was absolutely astounded, “So, you are?”
“Dr. Bell.”
“Dr. Bell?”
It was common knowledge that Dr. Bell’s medical skills were phenomenal,
bringing people back from the brink of death. But he was elusive, and no one
knew his whereabouts.
Ever since the old couple was admitted to the ICU, Louisa and her family had
repeatedly tried to find Dr. Bell to treat them.
Some said Dr. Bell was already dead, others claimed he was last seen in the
triangular zone, and some said he had retired. As for the reliability of these
rumors, no one really knew.
All this time, Louisa only knew her daughter was a brilliant doctor who had
saved Phillip and Grace Murphy. But her daughter being Dr. Bell was beyond
her expectations!
“You have so many aliases!” Louisa was truly stunned, “No wonder you didn’t
charge for the consultation. You silly girl!”
It turned out that the one, who had been running around for three months,
providing treatment plans for the couple and supplying the expensive medicine,
was her own daughterChapter 796
Not too long ago, Jennifer was struck with the C30 virus, a fatal disease said to
be incurable worldwide. It was Bella who saved her.
At that time, Louisa hadn’t connected the dots between her daughter and the
infamous Dr. Bell.
After all, rumors had it that Dr. Bell was a man!
“No wonder Jennifer called you a mysterious treasure. How come you’re so
amazing, skilled at everything!” Louisa, brimming with excitement, cupped her
daughter’s face, praising, “If your grandparents knew that you cured their illness,
they’d be even more surprised and proud than I am!”
Enter title…
Who would have thought Bella could be so outstanding in every way?
Not to mention the McMillian family, if the Collins family were to encounter such
an exceptional daughter-in-law, they’d be over the moon!
Aiden couldn’t help but peek at Ms. Bella through the rearview mirror, recalling
the first time he drove her to the Murphy family.
She had effortlessly reattached a fallen car door.
Ms. Bella seemed to be competent at everything, which made her quite
extraordinary.
“Oh, by the way, take a look at this data.”
The daily diagnostic data and doctor’s reports for the elderly couple were
updated in a software backend for Kenneth and Louisa to check at any time.
Louisa had noticed the data was gradually improving over the past few days, but
she couldn’t understand many of the professional terms and had to show them
to Arabella.
After reading them, Arabella smiled subtly, “Grandpa will wake up soon.”
“Really?” Louisa was amazed that her daughter had read through the
convoluted medical jargon and data reports in less than a minute. And the best
part, Arabella’s grandpa would wake up soon?
That was wonderful news!
“In a day or two.”
Upon hearing this, Louisa was overjoyed, “That’s fantastic. I need to tell your
father this good news!”
Before long, their car pulled into the private parking garage of the hospital.
Hatikvah Hospital was a high-end private hospital owned by the Collins family
where the elderly couple had been convalescing for a long time.
As soon as Arabella got out of the car, she saw another vehicle from their house
driving towards them. The people getting out were Kenneth and Serena.
Serena greeted her politely, explaining softly, “Dad was dealing with business
near Summerfield College, and when he heard that Grandma woke up, he
picked me up to come over.”
“Honey, you just mentioned in the WhatsApp group that Dad will wake up in a
day or two. Did that renowned doctor say that? Are you sure?” Kenneth was
dizzy with excitement. If this was true, it was like a double blessing.
“Before we talk about that, I have a secret to tell you!” Louisa, as if sharing a
shocking secret, said with great enthusiasm, “Actually, Bella is Dr. Bell!”
“Dr. Bell?”
“Surprising, isn’t it? Over these three months, the one providing treatment plans
and expensive medicines for dad and mom, and the ‘doctor friend’ we’ve been
talking about, is Bella!” As Louisa
revealed this, she put an arm around Arabella’s shoulder, praising, “Who would
have thought she was so modest?”
“Bella, you treated grandpa and grandma’s illness?” Kenneth looked at his
daughter in shock, not expecting her medical skills to be so advanced.
Arabella nodded and hummed, “I didn’t say it before because I didn’t want you
to worry.’
After all, a teenage girl using the medical knowledge she learned to save her
seriously ill grandparents would naturally cause concern.
Serena, standing to the side, turned pale. She could hardly believe it,
unconsciously clenching her fists.
She knew that Arabella was somewhat versed in medicine, but she never
expected her to be Dr. Bell!
Dr. Bell was a well-known figure in the medical world!
The last time when Arabella came to the hospital to visit her grandma, and her
grandma had a sudden complication, Arabella saved her by giving her an
injection. Serena had mocked Arabella for merely reading a few random medical
books and copying the techniques, and being lucky enough to save her
grandma.
She never imagined that Bella was Dr. Bell!Chapter 797
Dr. Bell’s position was not to be despised by a layman like her.
But since it was Dr. Bell, why did she choose to attend such an ordinary school
like Westerly College? Could it be true what the admissions officer said, that
Arabella was drawn to the array of scientific equipment?
Arabella’s real purpose in attending Westerly College wasn’t to study, but to
conduct medical experiments.
She hadn’t lost her mind to studying, enrolling in a university even more
mediocre than Summerfield College.
Enter title…
If that was indeed true, then her previous mockery of Arabella felt like a slap in
her own face!
It was too painful, too loud, too embarrassing!
It was fortunate that she had stopped Martha from drugging Arabella in time.
Thinking about it now, had they gone through with it, Martha and she would
have been kicked out long ago.
Martha had even wanted to set Arabella up, making everyone think that Arabella
and her friend had killed their grandparents. Luckily, she had been too softhearted to harm her grandparents.
Otherwise, the ones at a disadvantage would have been her and Martha!
But how could Arabella be so strong and formidable?
A sense of unwillingness arose in Serena’s heart.
“Serena, Serena?” Kenneth called her name several times.
Serena snapped back to reality, only to see Louisa and Arabella walking toward
the elevator.
Only Kenneth was still waiting for her, “What’s going on with you?”
“I just didn’t expect Grandma to wake up so soon. I’m too excited, too surprised.
I didn’t expect my sister to be Dr. Bell. She’s truly exceptional.”
“Yeah, the Collins family is lucky enough to have such a treasure return.”
Kenneth stopped suddenly, realizing something, and quickly added, “Serena,
what I meant was, your sister is exceptional, but you’re not bad either. With your
grades and talents, you’re top among your peers.’
Serena chuckled awkwardly. Yeah, she was barely a standout among her peers,
but in front of Arabella, she was only fit to be beaten.
What should she do?
She really didn’t know Arabella had so many aliases.
At this time, Louisa and Arabella had arrived at the 22nd floor.
This floor was not open to the public. All the medical staff here only served the
Collins family. The head nurse saw them and greeted them respectfully.
“Mrs. Collins, Ms. Collins, the old lady has woken up. She’s in her room, and
she’s doing quite well.”
Serena, who had just stepped out of the elevator, heard the head nurse address
Arabella as Ms. Collins, her face changing slightly.
Once upon a time, there was only one Ms. Collins in everyone’s eyes, and that
was her, Serena.
But now things had changed.
The head nurse walked a few steps forward. She saw Serena, and called out
Ms. Collins.
This caused a subtle change in Serena’s mood.
At this moment, her grandma’s nursing worker, Julie, walked out of the room.
Seeing Louisa and Arabella, she hurriedly greeted them.
Her attitude towards Arabella was even more respectful and warm than before.Chapter 798
The last time Arabella had made an impromptu medical intervention, Julie had
doubted her skills. But after witnessing her successfully save her grandmother,
Julie had a complete change of heart, admiring Arabella’s medical prowess.
When Julie met Serena, however, she wasn’t as enthusiastic, merely greeting
her politely without the “admiration” and “appreciation” she showed Arabella.
Serena felt upset again, feeling that Julie was looking down on her, treating her
like an undercooked hamburger.
Julie had been dispatched by the old lady to pick them up. On the phone earlier,
Kenneth had mentioned to the old lady that there was a child who had been lost
Enter title…
but had returned to the family a few months ago, and would be brought to meet
everyone soon.
Upon hearing this, Cornelia had instructed Julie to pick them up.
Everyone was now assembled, and Julie, knocking on the door with a smile,
announced in a louder and jubilant voice, “Madam, Louisa and your
granddaughters have come to see you!”
“Come in, came a kind voice from inside the room.
After opening the door, Julie stepped aside.
The old woman on the hospital bed looked dignified and elegant.
She seemed to be glowing, full of life.
“Mom, you’re finally awake-”
Unable to contain their excitement, Kenneth and Louisa rushed forward and
embraced her, tears of joy streaming down their faces.
Cornelia Collins, smiling, her eyes radiating maternal warmth and love, said,
“Why are you crying?”
“Mom, you and Dad have been unconscious for so long. It scared us.’ Louisa
said with tears in her eyes. “You don’t know how long we’ve been hoping for you
and Dad to wake up, and finally, the day has come.”
Kenneth was also choking up, his voice hoarse, “You and dad have suffered.”
“Suffered? We just closed our eyes and ignored the world, but; Cornelia lovingly
looked at the two in front of her, “you must be tired, having to worry about us
and take care of the family.”
As Louisa’s tears flowed, Cornelia turned to her son. “Kenneth, what are you
standing there for? Your wife is crying, don’t you have some tissues?”
Kenneth, belatedly realizing, quickly brought over a box of tissues.
Hearing this, Louisa couldn’t help but laugh through her tears.
“Mom, he wouldn’t dare.”
“Yeah, Mom, I love her too much to hurt her.”
Seeing their enduring love and harmony, Cornelia couldn’t help but smile.
“Where is the child you were talking about?”
“She’s here.’ Louisa, remembering their mission, quickly waved Arabella over.
“Bella, come here. Let your grandmother have a good look at you.”
The young girl standing nearby had clear bright eyes, an elegant appearance,
and a charismatic demeanor. Her skin was fair.
She greeted her grandma politely, her voice pure and soothing, like the babbling
of a brook.
What a lovely young girl, thought Cornelia. Whether it’s her voice, her looks, or
her demeanor, she was truly a sight for sore eyes.
Cornelia’s eyes still sparkled with the same energy that had made her a force to
be reckoned with over the years, as well as the warmth and affection of an
elder. “You must be Arabella, my own granddaughter. Come over here.”
Cornelia patted the spot next to her.
Arabella obediently walked over and sat down.
“I heard about your story over the phone. I had a feeling something was not
quite right about that fire all those years ago. I secretly investigated for a while
without telling Kenneth and Louisa, But when I couldn’t find any leads, I gave
up. If I had persisted in my investigation back then, maybe you wouldn’t have
had to suffer like this.” Chapter 799
Cornelia clasped Arabella’s soft hand, seeming somewhat remorseful.
Arabella hadn’t anticipated that her grandmother had been so vigilant in her
youth, even resorting to private investigations for a while. Suddenly, she saw her
grandmother in a new light.
She offered an elegant smile, soothingly saying, “Grandma, you need not feel
guilty. I’ve been doing quite well all these years.”
Cornelia chuckled at her words, “Sweet child, you’re even comforting me now.”
Could she have been doing as well as being with the Collins family?
Enter title…
Word was that she was taken in by the Murphy family, where she faced many
hardships.
“I’ve met many like-minded people and done a lot of things I wanted to do.”
It was much better than being a spoiled heiress.
“Besides, I’m back now, aren’t I?”
Cornelia looked at Arabella before her. Her features were picturesque, her
demeanor elegant, and she was surprisingly mature, understanding, and
gracious.
Before seeing her, Cornelia had imagined a timid cautious girl who would feel
uncomfortable entering the ward, speaking in a soft voice, and possibly even
shedding a few tears out of grievance.
But the girl before her, graceful yet spirited, reminded her of a plum blossom in
the snow or a willow in the wind, making her feel extremely at ease.
“Thank God you’re back, giving us a chance to make up for the past.” Cornelia
patted her hand again, “When I am discharged from the hospital, I will prepare a
gift for you.”
Arabella laughed, “The best gift for me would be the good health of you.”
Cornelia was delighted. She didn’t expect Arabella to be so well-behaved and
understanding.
She had heard that the Murphys were conscienceless, but they had raised this
child well.
At this moment, Cornelia’s gaze fell on Serena, “Serena.”
“Grandma.” Serena, who was standing in the corner, didn’t draw attention to
herself but waited until Cornelia noticed her. She seemed as gentle and
obedient as always.
“Come over here.”
Serena sat down beside Cornelia, her eyes filled with joy, “I’m so happy to see
you awake.”
Cornelia had heard that the family had finally decided to keep Serena and treat
her as Arabella’s sister, “The family can afford to feed you. Whatever your living
conditions were before, they will remain the same.”
In the past eighteen years, Cornelia had come to see her as a genuine
granddaughter, loving her deeply.
Though they were not related by blood, the bond they had was stronger than
any blood tie.
The Collins family was influential and wealthy, so they could definitely
accommodate one more girl.
Cornelia patted Serena’s hand, “I heard from the nurse that you often came over
while your grandfather and I were unconscious.
Good girl, you are very thoughtful.” Cornelia held Serena’s hand in one hand
and Arabella’s in the other. She turned to Louisa, “Now that we have another girl
in the house, it feels even more lively.”
Then Cornelia began to cough.
Seeing her cough, Arabella picked up the water jug beside her and poured a
glass of water, intending to hand it over.Chapter 800
It was just the very next moment.
Arabella’s movement halted mid-air.
Louisa sensed something was amiss, she couldn’t help but ask, “Bella, what’s
wrong?”
“There’s something wrong with this water.”
As soon as she uttered these words, everyone in the room was stunned. The
water was tainted? What was wrong?
“There’s a slow-acting poison in it.”
Enter title…
Arabella’s statement sent a wave of shock across the faces of everyone
present, even Cornelia was visibly taken aback.
This was the Collins family’s private hospital!
Every single healthcare worker on this floor catered solely to the needs of the
Collins family!
Under such circumstances, outsiders couldn’t possibly gain entry!
So, when could someone have possibly poisoned the water?
Arabella, clearly aware of this dilemma, asked Louisa, “Has anyone else been
here recently?”
“No one, just us, the doctors and nurses, and two nursing workers.”
Since Arabella’s grandparents were in the same room, they were looked after by
two nursing workers separately. Apart from them, no outsiders had been
present.
Arabella’s gaze swept over everyone present. Serena noticed her scrutiny and
immediately felt a bit uneasy.
Was Arabella going to use this opportunity to slander her?
Out of the blue, why was Arabella looking at her?
However, the next moment, Arabella’s gaze shifted away from her and onto
others.
Serena heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, Arabella didn’t seize the opportunity
to create a scene.
“Ms. Bella, I had just replaced this water in the morning, it can’t possibly be
poisoned.” The one speaking was Julie, she had been diligently caring for the
old lady for months now and had come to regard her as family.
“What time did you replace it?” Arabella’s tone was gentle. She was seemingly
not intending to consider Julie a suspect.
“It was around eight. After the doctor’s morning rounds, I went to replace the
water. No one else had been here till you guys arrived.”
“So, you replaced the water for everyone in the room?”
“No, the water I replaced was solely for the old lady. Helen and I both fetch
water from outside. The old man’s water was replaced by Helen.”
Arabella then opened her grandfather’s water bottle. It wasn’t poisoned. Could it
be that the person who poisoned the water was targeting her grandmother
alone?
“Besides you two, who else knew that my grandparents use separate water
bottles?” Arabella inquired again.
“The doctors and nurses probably didn’t pay attention to these details. Apart
from us and the family, no one else should know.”
By this time, Helen’s face had turned somewhat unnatural. She knew Arabella
was knowledgeable in medical matters but she hadn’t expected that she could
instantly spot what was wrong with the water.
Now, Arabella turned her attention towards Helen. She was sitting beside her
grandfather, her head bowed, trying to keep a low profile. However, Arabella
could make out a hint of panic in her demeanor.
“So, Helen is the one who poisoned the water.”
Arabella’s words scared Helen, making her jump to her feet, defensively
retorting, “Ms. Bella, you can’t speak recklessly!”
Julie, who was standing by, jumped to her colleague’s defense, “It couldn’t have
been Helen. She’s always been devotedly taking care of the old man.’