The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella and Romeo) novel Chapter 108

"Long time no see, Miss Serena! You've brought gifts again!"

"Did you get them from that fancy hotel down the street? Their stuff's a bit too rich for our blood. Makes us feel guilty eating it."

"We're so lucky to have you, Miss Serena. You keep treating us to these gourmet delicacies."

"Even after all this time, you're still a knockout, Miss Serena!"

"We're seriously blessed to have a boss like you! Not only are you generous and stunning, but you've also got talents that put other heiresses to shame."

...

Serena smiled at their compliments, then laughed and pretended to be mad, "There's no honey in the afternoon tea, but you all sure know how to lay it on thick."

"Miss Serena, you just keep getting more beautiful. Could you share your secret?"

One of the receptionists stared at Serena, resting her chin in her hands, admiring her flawless skin without a single pimple to be seen.

"Don't get your hopes up. The skincare products Miss Serena uses are probably too expensive for us."

As Serena listened to their chit-chat, about to say something, she noticed they all suddenly stood up, frantically fixing themselves up, and respectfully greeted, "Good afternoon, Mr. McMillian!"

Serena turned to see Romeo had returned.

"Romeo—"

Before Serena could approach him, several senior staff rushed over, bombarding Romeo with urgent matters, then swiftly heading towards the elevator as if no one heard Serena's call.

Carl stayed behind, blocking Serena's way, "Miss Serena, you're looking for Romeo?"

"I brought afternoon tea for Romeo. And for you too, Carl. I wanted to discuss something with Romeo." Serena glanced at the retreating figure, a little anxious. Carl was stopping her from going forward, leaving her helpless.

"I really need to see Romeo."

The receptionists were left clueless about the situation, sensing some hidden tension.

"Do you think Mr. McMillian doesn't like Miss Serena?"

"No way! Miss Serena is so accomplished. Whether her looks, knowledge, talent, or family background... there isn't a second one like her in this world!"

"But why did Carl stop her?"

"Mr. McMillian probably didn't mean to ignore Miss Serena. When he walked in, you saw that a bunch of managers needed his attention. Carl likely didn't want Miss Serena to wait in vain."

"He's cold to everybody. It seems like only work can catch his eye. We've been here for years. Has Mr. McMillian ever really looked at us?"

"Not that I recall."

"So, their marriage is strong. We don't need to worry about it!"