The Princess and the Paupers Novel Full Episode
Chapter 1855

Chapter 1855

"Thanks, Uncle and Auntie," Ophelia said. Hardly had she finished speaking before Bernard came over

with a fresh cup of tea and Cornelia followed, presenting a plate of pastries.

Ophelia quickly stood up to accept them, saying, "Grandpa and Grandma, you're too kind. I can

manage on my own, but thank you."

Bernard and Cornelia fussed over her a bit more, saying, "Well, you and Bella have a nice chat. We're

going to head upstairs."

"Take care, Grandpa and Grandma," Ophelia called out as they left.

Ophelia watched their retreating figures. But she barely had a moment before Arabella's maternal

grandparents came over with a fruit platter, urging her to help herself generously.

"Thank you, Grandpa and Grandma. It's just, I feel bad seeing you serving fruit to someone younger

like me," she said, her voice with genuine concern.

"That's what we should do, dear," they replied warmly. "It’s more appropriate for us the elders to look

after you. Now, you and Bella enjoy your time. It's not often we have you over, so don't rush off. Both

our family, and Bella in particular, are happy you could come."

"I'll stay a while longer," Ophelia assured them, grateful for their hospitality.

Louisa, afraid she would impose on their gathering, also parted with Kenneth. They soon left the living

room, leaving behind the brothers and the two girls.

With the elders gone, the atmosphere became more relaxed.

"Bella's never been one to invite friends over, so the family's excited, maybe a bit too eager. Hope we

didn't startle you, Ms. Almond," Hans said.

Ophelia was quick to reply, "Oh, not at all. I'm just so happy for Bella. To come back to such a loving

family, and to see how much you all care for her. It makes me happy, too. Bella's been through some

rough times, but it looks like she's finally found her silver lining."

Then she quickly changed the subject, not wanting to delve into past sorrows, adding, "This family's

hospitality is truly something else, a cut above the Murphys. The Murphys were awful, except for

Grannie Grace, of course."

She shot Arabella a smile, careful not to offend.

She knew all too well the place Grannie Grace held in Arabella’s heart.

The brothers were surprised by Ophelia’s candor in openly criticizing the Murphys in front of everyone.

It was clear she harbored deep resentment on Bella's behalf.

"Thank goodness fate turned the tables, letting them get a taste of the hardship Bella endured,"

Ophelia added, her words full of empathy for her friend.

"Bella's lucky to have such a caring and genuine friend like you. I'm pleased for her," Hans said with a

soft smile. "I hear you've just returned from abroad, Ms. Almond. You were pursuing opportunities

overseas?"

"Yes, I was involved in a project in Belloria, but someone kept throwing wrenches in the works, so it

hasn't been going smoothly," Ophelia explained—that accounted for her extended stay abroad.

"Someone causing trouble? Bella's brother Sean has some influence in Belloria; he might be able to

help. Who's been giving you trouble?" Hans asked, then turned to Sean, "Did you know Ms. Almond

before this?"

"Not personally," Sean replied. He knew of her, but she was unaware of him.

To the outside world, he was just the infamous Sheen, and she was none the wiser.

"Well, this is a good time to get acquainted. It'll be great to have someone to watch your back in

Belloria. From my knowledge, you both share a passion for sports and racing," Hans said, looking

between Sean and Ophelia. "My brother's team, Drift Swifts, has made a name for itself in Belloria.

Ever heard of it, Ms. Almond?"