Chapter 248
Chapter 248 Another Clash
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“Not at all. This potential investment isn’t just because you’re my sister–it’s because you and the plan are genuinely compelling,” Ethan said, his appreciation for her capabilities growing.
Arabella stood. “I should get going then.”
“Hold on.” Ethan stopped her. “Even the busiest people need to eat. It’s nearly lunchtime. My treat–what are you in the mood for?”
“Alright. I can work on the proposal after we eat.”
“Let’s go.”
They left the office and walked to a nearby upscale steakhouse.
The moment they stepped inside, Arabella spotted a familiar figure and inwardly sighed. Of all places to run into her.
Harper noticed them at the same time, her lips curling into a sneer. “Well, look who decided to slum it upscale. Don’t tell me you’ve started believing your own little rich girl fantasy.” How could they possibly afford a place like this?
Arabella’s eyebrow arched defiantly. “If someone from a family that’s practically insolvent can come here, why couldn’t we?”
“Who are you calling insolvent?” Harper’s face flushed instantly with rage.
“Whoever the shoe fits.” Arabella shrugged, her meaning clear.
“Hmph, don’t you look down on me,” Harper retorted, tilting her chin up arrogantly. “My uncle is back in town, and my parents are overseas closing an investment deal. Money is the least of my concerns right now.”
Arabella’s eyes narrowed slightly. So that was it. Harper was still in the dark about Carter and Freya’s current predicament, but Calvin… He was indeed back.
“Feeling intimidated now?” Harper gloated. “My advice? Turn around and leave. Save yourselves the embarrassment when you can’t pay the check. Don’t expect me to bail you out.” If she hadn’t been outnumbered, she’d have loved to make a scene right
then.
Arabella let out a cold, dismissive laugh. “Are you hallucinating? If you’re unwell, see a doctor. Don’t cause a disturbance here.”
The murmurs and sideways glances from other patrons made Harper’s face darken further.
“Say that again!” Harper snapped, her voice rising.
She had wanted to humiliate Arabella into leaving, but now she was the one looking foolish.
Arabella raised her brow again. “I said, you should see a doctor.”
“You…” Harper was so furious she felt a physical pang of anger.
“What’s her problem?”
“Yeah, she seems a bit unhinged.”
“Seriously, she might need help.”
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Chapter 248 Another Clash.
The whispers from nearby tables finally pushed Harper over the edge.
“Arabella, you’re going to regret this!” Harper’s eyes flashed as she lunged forward.
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“You’re the one who’ll regret it.” Ethan moved swiftly, stepping in front of Arabella and shoving Harper back.
Harper stumbled, lost her footing, and slammed into the sharp corner of a nearby table. She cried out, clutching her side. “Ah! My back!” A spike of fear shot through her–had she broken something? The pain was intense.
“Let me be clear.” Ethan’s voice was ice–cold. “If you lay a hand on my sister again, the consequences will be far worse.”
“You… you actually pushed me?” Harper stammered, disbelief warring with pain on her face.
“Ethan was protecting me from an assault,” Arabella stated flatly.
Ethan’s sneer was contemptuous. “Next time, engage your brain before you act. Unless, of course, you don’t have one–then just forget I said anything.”
With that, he gently took Arabella’s arm. “Let’s sit over there, Arabella. No point wasting our time on such tiresome nonsense.”
“Arabella, get back here! I’ll…” Harper started to shout, but the words died in her throat as Ethan’s cold gaze locked onto her.
Satisfied by the fear in her eyes, Ethan guided Arabella to a table on the other side of the restaurant.
Harper could only glare, her eyes burning with hatred, but she didn’t dare approach again. Fuming silently, she finally turned and stormed out of the restaurant.
This isn’t over, Arabella. Just you wait.
“I’m sorry about that scene. We should have gone somewhere else,” Ethan apologized once they were seated.
Arabella offered a small, calm smile. “It’s fine. She doesn’t affect me.” Someone like Harper wasn’t even worth a second thought. Although… Calvin’s return certainly explained her renewed audacity.
“As long as you’re okay. Here, see what you’d like,” Ethan said, passing her the menu.
Arabella selected a few dishes, making sure to include some of Ethan’s favorites. He couldn’t help but feel a warm surge of affection. “Only my sister remembers what I like.”
“And you’re always looking out for me,” Arabella replied, her smile genuine.
They fell into easy conversation, and the unpleasant incident was soon forgotten as the meal progressed in a cheerful atmosphere.
Harper arrived home seething, her anger still boiling
“Harper, what’s wrong?” Calvin asked, immediately noticing her stormy expression.
“It’s all because of that–OW!” The moment she tensed up, a sharp pain shot through her back.
“You’re hurt! What happened? Did someone pick a fight with you?” Calvin frowned, his protective instincts flaring.
“It was Arabella! I ran into her today, and…” Harper poured out the whole story, her voice trembling with indignation.
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Chapter 248 Another Clash.
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Calvin’s face darkened instantly. “She actually had someone lay hands on you?” That wretched girl was becoming intolerable. His sister was still in the hospital, and now she was bullying Harper too?
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