The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1523

“Pleasure to meet you, Mr. McMllian.” Mabel greeted with a well-mannered smile that seemed to convey a depth of knowledge, “My granddad used to speak so highly of you. Now that I see you in person, you indeed carry yourself with such distinction. He always regretted not having the chance to play another game of chess with you. If you find the time, may I have the honor of playing in his stead?”

Bluno, who stood nearby, couldn't hide his disdain as he snorted in amusement, sparing no mercy as he exposed her, “If I'm not mistaken, that's exactly what you said to Mr. Albright just a moment ago.”

She had claimed that her grandfather's biggest regret was not having the chance to play another game of chess with Mr. Albright.

“Young lady, it's not good to fib at such a young age.”

“What fib? My dear departed husband always kept two chess companions closest to his heart: Mr. McMllian and Mr. Albright. What would a youngster like you know? Now step aside,” Amanda retorted with a mix of scorn and dissatisfaction that only someone of her advanced years could get away with when addressing a man of Bluno's stature.

However, when she turned to Phillip, her tone softened considerably, “Phillip, let me raise a toast to you on behalf of my late husband, shall I?”

“Oh no, no need. I can’t partake in spirits anymore; my personal physician has forbidden it. No alcohol, no spicy food. I must stick to the doctor's orders.”

“It seems this young doctor of yours knows their stuff, to keep you so in line.” Amanda didn't press the issue further, but added, “Speaking of which, I’ve been feeling quite worn out lately, as if my body can't keep up. Perhaps when you’re free, you could introduce this doctor to me?”

“She’s very busy, and it was a huge favor to have her treat me.” Phillip was reluctant to burden his precious granddaughter-in-law with more work, “I think it's just your age catching up to you. If there’s no serious ailment, any general practitioner should suffice.”

A tad embarrassed, but still smiling, Amanda conceded, “You're right.”

“We haven’t had the chance to thank Phillip properly for the big favor the McMllian Corporation did for us.”

“The McMllian Corporation isn’t under his management anymore. If you have business, go talk to Romeo.” President Barton steered Phillip away by the shoulders, “If I hadn’t spotted you from afar and come to your rescue, you'd still be stuck in the same spot.”

“Yes, yes, you’ve got the keen eye. Where’s my darling granddaughter-in-law?”

“There you go, just as I thought. You're here to see Arabella,” President Barton chuckled, well aware that the presence of these old timers was due in no small part to that young lady.