19

"Collins residence," Victor's voice greeted her on the other end of the line, tinged with a hint of weariness.

"Dad?" Arabella's confusion was evident in her voice. "Where's the secretary?"

There was a pause on the other end of the line, a pregnant silence that spoke volumes. "Ah... Arabella, dear. Well, she..." Victor's voice faltered slightly, as if he were searching for the right words. "We no longer have a secretary."

Arabella's brow furrowed in disbelief. "What? Why?"

"It's a very high cost, dear," Victor explained, his tone apologetic.

"But you sold the..." Arabella's words trailed off, her mind racing. "Is the money gone?"

"Arabella, why did you call?" Victor attempted to deflect, but Arabella was not so easily swayed.

"Answer me, Victor. Is the money gone?" Her voice was firm, her resolve unyielding.

"Arabella, when you last visited, Eleonor was with you, and I did not want to add another burden to your shoulders," Victor began, his voice heavy with sorrow.

"Yes, I sold the c