The Princess and the Paupers

1 suggest we keep an eye on her and see how she behaves next,” Myrna said, sipping on her lemonade. “If she doesn’t show
any signs of remorse in the coming days, or if she’s up to no good behind our backs, we’ll let your parents know and they can
kick her out. But if she truly realizes her mistake, Bella, should we give her another shot?”
“So, you mean we should make more friends than enemies?” Arabella glanced at them, seemingly grasping their point.
Myrna: “I’m just throwing it out there. After all, your parents have quite a soft spot for her. Your brothers have also put a lot of
effort into dealing with her. If we suddenly kick her out, your parents might find it hard to adjust. They’ve been together for
eighteen years. But it’s just a suggestion, the ball’s in your court.”
Chasel “Bella, you don’t have to worry about anyone else’s feelings. I’ve got your back, no matter what you want to do, even if
you want to kick her out of the Collins family.”
Myrna: True that, I’m with you, too. If you want her gone, she’s got to go.”
Arabella tapped her finger against her cup, falling silent for a moment. “Alright, we’ll see how she behaves next.”
Having Serena in the house didn’t really bother her. Over the past couple of months, Serena had been a handful, but she never
got anything good out of Arabella.
If it came down to dealing with Serena, Arabella could do it in a snap. She was mainly concerned about the feelings of her family
members.
They seemed to have quite a soft spot for Serena.
“One more thing,” Chasel suddenly piped up.
Arabella and Myrna both turned their attention to him.
I’m sorry for what Serena said earlier,” Chasel apologized. “About the travel destinations. Whenever you have time, wherever
you want to go, we’re all in. We can make new memories, just us, as a family.”
Arabella’s gaze softened.
When Serena mentioned their childhood and everything Chasel had done for her, Arabella felt a pang of envy. She never
experienced that kind of familial warmth growing up. Attlee and Olga never showed her an ounce of love.

Even though Grannie Grace adored her, it was not the same as being pampered by her brothers.
She had never been spoiled by her brothers growing up.
Chasel seemed to understand what she was thinking, but before he could say anything comforting, Myrna beat him to it. She
draped her arm around Arabella’s shoulders, patting her consolingly. “Don’t worry. From now on, I’ll spoil you rotten. Whatever
you want to do, whatever you want, I’ll make it happen.”
Arabella cracked a smile and said, “I’m content with what I have now.”
She might not have any deep memories from the past, but the genuine love and care from her family were palpable.
Now she had Myrna as well. That was more than enough:
Chasel: “Bella, remember, you always have more say in this house than Serena. If you need anything, everyone would choose
you over her, no questions asked. Of course, the choice might be painful, but that’s just how it is. We can handle that pain.
You’re a part of this family, no one has the right to threaten your place here, not even Serena. You’re more deserving of our love
and care than she is. Remember, we’re family. Next time you see me, don’t be a stranger. If you need anything, I’m here for you.”