The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella and Romeo) novel Chapter 1924

"Man, I was just scratching the surface with my thoughts. If it wasn't for Ms. Collins's sharp wit, I would've been led by the nose by Mrs. Beverly Collins," the head of the bodyguard was in awe of Arabella's smarts.

"Thing is, Beverly's always been a piece of work. You've been with the Collins family for years, have you ever seen her break a sweat?" Arabella's gaze shifted to the head of the bodyguard standing before her.

He shook his head. Mrs. Beverly Collins seemed to always carry herself with a grace that was unflappable, no matter the situation.

"So back there, when the driver dropped a switchblade, her face flickered with panic. It was just too forced." Arabella mused, "If that driver were really up to no good, she should have been the epitome of calm, but her poise came a second too late."

"Ms. Collins, you truly show there's always a bigger fish." The head of the bodyguard was thoroughly impressed, "So this means the truth from all those years ago is about to come to light."

Just then, Arabella's phone vibrated. Glancing at the screen, she announced, "I'm off to pick up Romeo."

"Romeo's really coming over for dinner?" David seemed surprised. That guy really didn't see himself as an outsider, "Hey sis, you haven't touched the pastries I brought you."

Quick as a flash, David grabbed one and hurried over, popping it into his sister's mouth.

Arabella chewed on the treat while sipping her coffee, sauntering leisurely towards the front door.

Suddenly, she felt two pairs of eyes drilling into her back. Her instincts told her they were coming from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the main house.

With a subtle lift of her lips, she continued towards the door, her stride unbroken.