The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1854

Kenneth and Louisa were surprised. How on earth did the two know Ophelia’s name?

Hans, too, glanced at Sean with a hint of surprise. Ophelia's identity was not common knowledge, so how Sean could know that, since he had always been in Belloria?

Had Ophelia visited Belloria, crossing paths with Sean in the process?

The other siblings exchanged curious and puzzled looks, turning their eyes towards Sean.

It was not strange for Hans, a seasoned businessman, to know the Almonds, but how did Sean come to know Ophelia?

Kenneth and Louisa hadn't expected that Bella's friend would turn out to be Ophelia Almond, the sole heiress of the Almonds.

"Your father and I go way back," Hans began, "We've had a few dealings in the past, and then his business focus shifted abroad, and we lost touch. I remember when we were out playing golf, he mentioned you were still in school. He spoke so fondly of you, it's hard to believe you've grown up to be such a graceful young woman."

Kenneth, realizing she was the Almonds’ daughter, looked at her with a newfound warmth, as if seeing an old friend's child.

"Just two years ago, I read in the news that your father handed over the reins of the family business to you. It was quite a significant event back then," Louisa chimed in.

Ophelia responded with a light chuckle, "Yes, a lot of people doubted me back then, thinking I couldn't fill my father's shoes."

"This proves that your father was a man of vision," Hans said. That was a rare compliment from him, especially for someone he had just met.

Since taking over the Collins family business, Hans hadn't worked with the Almonds directly. However, he had heard of the feats of the Almond heiress in their business circle.

At such a young age, she had propelled the group to new heights, turning skepticism into respect in just two years.

There were six elders seated on the sofas, of whom Ophelia was stunned at first glance.

Not only did Arabella's grandparents and aunts and uncles rise to greet her warmly, shaking her hand and engaging in friendly conversation, but they also treated her almost like a member of their own family!

Ophelia thanked them profusely for their hospitality and followed their lead, calling them Grandma Darren, Grandpa Belinda, Auntie, and Uncle, just as Arabella did.

"In the future, you don’t need to bring gifts when you come to our home. We're all delighted to have you here. Feel free to visit anytime you like," Eunice expressed warmly with a smile. "Now, you and Bella enjoy your chat. We elders will leave you be."

Eunice and Bard were the first to head upstairs, not wanting to overwhelm the youngsters with too many people around.

"Stay as long as you like, treat this place like your own home, no need to be formal," Bard added kindly before leaving.