Chapter 74
Chapter 74 Shared Passions
Chapter 74 Shared Passions
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“Well, now open mine, Arabella,” Naomi said. Even though Florence had stepped away, Jonathan was still there. Naomi still hoped to cam his approval.
Seeing Naomi’s persistence, Arabella sighed lightly. “Dad, my hands are full with this snack. Would you open my sister’s gift for me p>
Hearing Arabella ask Jonathan to open it, Naomi felt a surge of satisfaction. If Jonathan saw the gift first, he’d surely notice its value and commend her thoughtfulness in front of Arabella.
At Arabella’s request, Jonathan carefully set down the porcelain vase he’d been examining.
“Of course, I’ll open it for you,” he said affectionately.
He then picked up the box Naomi had given Arabella and slowly lifted the lid. Inside lay a beautiful, rare gemstone pendant, now visible to everyone.
“Arabella, your sister clearly cares for you deeply A piece like this is quite unique and not easy to find,” Jonathan remarked as he handed the pendant to Arabella for a closer look.
Hearing his praise, Naomi finally allowed a pleased smile to show. She’d waited what felt like forever just to hear those words. Good thing she hadn’t given up earlier–otherwise, Arabella would have completely stolen the spotlight.
Just then, Florence returned. Glancing at the pendant, she said warmly, “Naomi chose wonderfully. This type of gemstone is indeed uncommon p>
Seeing the sisters sharing a cordial moment, Florence couldn’t help but smile. How nice it would be if they could truly bond like family…
Holding the pendant, Arabella actually felt a little embarrassed. She hadn’t wanted to open it earlier precisely because the design felt dated to her, and she didn’t want her parents to think poorly of the designer. Yet unexpectedly, they seemed to like it–the complete opposite of what she’d assumed.
Noticing Naomi’s pleased expression, Arabella understood. So that was why she’d been so insistent–it was all about making a good impression in front of their parents.
The realization drew a faint, wry smile from Arabella.
A member of the household staff approached at announced, “Mrs. Hamilton, the crab is ready, and dinner is served p>
“Thank you. Please let Frank know it’s time to come down,” Florence instructed.
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Chapter 74 Shared Passions
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She then turned to Arabella. “The crab you wanted is all set. Let’s head to the dining room p>
Florence took Arabella’s hand and began leading her toward the table.
“Shouldn’t we wait for Frank?” Arabella asked. Even though she’d asked for the crab, it didn’t feel right to start without everyone.
“It’s fine. We’re all family here. He’ll be down shortly. You should start–seafood doesn’t stay warm for long,” Florence said kindly.
“Naomi, you and Ruby come along as well,” she added casually.
So Naomi and Ruby followed Florence and Arabella into the dining area.
Florence personally cracked open a crab leg for rabella.
“Mom, I can manage. You should have some too Arabella said considerately.
“Just try it first and tell me what you think,” Florence urged, her eyes warm as she watched her.
Arabella took a bite. “It’s delicious p>
“Here, you try some too,” she said, lifting a piece of crab meat toward Florence’s mouth.
“Mmm, it’s very fresh,” Florence said, her eyes brightening. It was the first time her daughter had fed her anything, and it made the familiar taste of crab seem even better.
Jonathan watched Florence’s happy expression and felt his own heart lift with contentment.
Naomi, however, found the crab in her hand less appetizing. Watching the easy affection between Florence and Arabella, a small, sharp twinge of jealousy rose in her chest.
Arabella really knew how to make Florence smil.
Ruby, meanwhile, glanced at Arabella before focusing on cracking her own crab. She intended to enjoy as much of the delicious meal as she could.
When Frank finally entered, Naomi greeted him with a smile. “Frank, what kept you upstairs so long p>
“Just had a few things to wrap up,” he replied casally.
“Let me crack some crab for you,” Naomi offered already reaching for a claw.
“No need. I can handle it myself,” Frank declined politely but firmly. He preferred to serve his
own food.
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Chapter 74 Shared Passions
“Alright,” Naomi said softly, her attempt to connect gently rebuffed.
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“Arabella, I didn’t see you this morning,” Frank remarked, noticing his sister at the table.
Before Arabella could respond, Florence answered cheerfully on her behalf, “Your sister went to an auction this morning and brought back gifs for your father and me p>
“Really? Arabella went to an auction?” Frank looked at Arabella with interest.
“They were just a few antique pieces and paintings. Nothing too extraordinary,” Arabella said modestly.
Florence clearly thought otherwise and immediately praised her again in front of Frank. “I think they’re quite special. That painting ‘Phoenix Reborn‘ is truly stunning. It’s one of the most meaningful gifts I’ve ever received.
“Frank, help me decide where to hang it later,” she added, wanting him to see what Arabella had chosen.
“Sure, I’d like to take a look,” Frank replied.
Arabella felt all the attention was a bit much. It was just a gift, and Florence was making a bigger deal of it than necessary.
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Sara Lili
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.