The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella and Romeo) novel Chapter 1309

Eunice couldn't quite put her finger on it, but she felt a wave of relief when Arabella's slender fingers rested on her wrist, checking her pulse. She let out a chuckle, "Well? What do you think?"

Arabella was taken aback, not expecting her aunt to be in such great shape.

"It seems you have been living the high life."

"Of course, I can't just sit around waiting to wither away. I'm convinced their schemes will unravel eventually, just like a secret too big to keep. Until then, my job is to stay radiant and collect their misdeeds, turning their allies to my side."

Arabella had to admire her aunt's savvy. Eunice was a woman who knew how to adapt, to protect herself, and had plenty of smarts.

Eunice was truly the perfect match for Bard. They were like a power couple straight out of a superhero movie.

"See you in a bit." Eunice flashed Arabella a knowing smile before gracefully ascending the staircase.

For some reason, spending time with Aunt Eunice felt like a breath of fresh spring air. It was invigorating and refreshing.

Meanwhile, on the other side of town.

Serena had been racking her brain and decided she couldn't just sit back and do nothing. So, she went to find Louisa and cooed, "Mom, Martin's been tied up with a big deal in Dawnstar, hasn't been home in ages. He's been asking me to visit, and I was thinking, maybe I should go, check in on Grandpa and Aunt Eunice too."

She wrapped her arms around Louisa's, playing the doting daughter, "I heard Aunt Eunice's back, and I can only imagine how much she's been through. There are things she might not feel comfortable telling Uncle Bard. If I go, she'd have someone else to confide in."

Perhaps fearing Louisa's refusal, Serena added while swinging her mom's hand gently, "Please, let me go. Grandpa adored me, and Aunt Eunice was always so kind. It just doesn't sit right with me, staying here doing nothing."