The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella and Romeo) novel Chapter 1399

"Fantastic!" Aunt Eunice beamed, her smile so wide it looked like her face might split in two. "Then, I won't hold back. Oh, I'm just so fond of you!"

Realizing she might have gotten a tad too excited, especially with Martin and Serena around, Eunice cleared her throat and regained her composure. "Now, my dear nephews-in-law, you haven't told me, what was the misunderstanding about? And what's this I hear about a scuffle right on your own doorstep?"

Romeo's piercing gaze shifted to Martin.

"Before we delve into that," Martin began, with a hint of hesitation, "may I be so bold as to ask who this is?" His eyes moved to Arabella.

Eunice's eyes widened in surprise, glancing between Martin and Serena in confusion. "What's the matter? Serena, haven't you introduced your sister to your boyfriend?"

Serena's face drained of color, the inevitable confrontation she dreaded was unfolding before her.

She attempted a reassuring smile, but it faltered and failed. Eunice immediately sensed something was amiss.

"This is Arabella, the Collins family's prized gem, my very own niece," Eunice introduced with a touch of pride.

At the mention of "niece," Martin looked startled, his gaze lingering thoughtfully.

"Eighteen years ago, there was a mix-up at the hospital when it caught fire. Louisa took the wrong child home, mistaking Serena for Bella."

Martin turned to look at the girl beside him, bewildered as to why she never mentioned any of this.

"Bella was found just six months ago. Since Serena's parents were nowhere to be found, the Collins family took her in. Since then, Bella has been considered the elder sister, and she, the younger."

Serena's pride and self-respect crumbled as Eunice narrated the tale, leaving her utterly defeated.

She could feel Martin's astonished and incredulous gaze on her, but she dared not meet his eyes.