Mrs. Thompson took her hand and said, "Miss Arabella is the granddaughter of the renowned art restorer Mr. Sislowes, from a distinguished literary family."The group of women, unfamiliar with the antique world, displayed a subtle change in expression. "Ah, I see, that's good," they replied with a hint of disdain in their tone.The other guests wore smiles that carried an air of ignorance.Arabella, perceptive as she was, noticed this, though she didn't outwardly reveal her discomfort.Mrs. Thompson ushered her into the room and whispered softly in her ear, "Darling, pay them no mind. Many of them here are rather crude, emitting the scent of brass and are completely ignorant."Arabella felt a warmth in her heart, flashing a charming smile at Mrs. Thompson. "Thank you, Mother. I'm fine."Mrs. Thompson patted her shoulder. "That's good. Dear, sit here for now. Help yourself to any tea and pastries you like. If you need anything, ring for a servant. Reginald will be with you shortly. I mu

That stinging feeling was too painful.Arabella clutched at her skirt, turning to Chloe lightly. "You must be very proud to so enthusiastically play the role of a mistress, Chloe. I truly hope your father lives to 200, continuing to shelter you."Chloe's breathing quickened in anger. "I still have my brother!"Thinking of Chloe's upright brother, Arabella smiled coldly. "Somehow I doubt he would support you in this. Best stock up on some life-extending supplements for your father. Every extra year would help."Chloe stormed out, slamming the door.Arabella's smile slowly disappeared. What good was winning a verbal skirmish? She had truly lost to Chloe.The reality was brutal—no amount of effort could outweigh having a powerful father.By the time Reginald and Mr. Northridge came downstairs, Arabella had regained her composure. She sang happy birthday and blew out the candles with them, as if everything was normal.After the cake, Reginald told her, "I'll have the driver take you home

In recent years, Reginald's legs were unable to stand, his spirit was listless, and he had suicidal tendencies.Arabella later developed a habit.Whether it was day or night, as soon as he disappeared, she would worry about what reckless thing he might be contemplating and would go looking for him. She would only feel at ease once she found him.Even after his legs healed later on, this habit remained unchanged.Arabella pushed open the door to the adjacent guest room. The bed was empty.She then went to the study; it was also vacant.The bathroom, shower room, balcony, downstairs, and even the kitchen—she searched everywhere but couldn't find Reginald.Her heart began to beat chaotically, pounding violently.She knew he wouldn't attempt suicide now, but she still felt that innate fear.Pushing the door open, she quickly walked to the yard.A huge lightning bolt suddenly tore through the pitch-black night, illuminating it as if it were daylight, followed by a deafening clap of thunder

"She hadn't expected Reginald to figure it out so quickly. Remembering what Northridge had said about keeping certain things from him to preserve the father-son relationship, she tried to maintain a facade of nonchalance."You mentioned divorce before. I've told you, I can't bear being with Chloe."Reginald's hand rested on her back. "You're lying. I've deliberately distanced myself from her recently."Arabella's lips curved upward, but her eyes held no mirth. "You two are childhood sweethearts, a perfect match. I'm just a hired hand for you. Now that your leg's better, this hired hand should leave."She heard Reginald sharply inhale, and he held her tighter. "By saying that, you're demeaning yourself."But he leaned in and whispered softly to her."I've never seen you as a hired hand, truly. You're my lawful wife, and I've always respected you."Arabella felt a pang, but her tone remained light. "You were the one who proposed divorce first, and now you're dragging your feet. I admit,

Alarabella's heart ached as if cruel fingers were gripping her neck. She longed to say, "Let's not get divorced."However, Northridge's words echoed in her mind. She was chosen to be Reginald's wife because Chloe was overseas at the time, and Alarabella was so similar to her. She was replaceable. Over these three years, any woman who replaced her would eventually win Reginald's love and attachment.It was like losing a precious pet cat or dog suddenly. There would be some sadness for a while, but as life continued, it would soon be forgotten. At most, a fleeting regret in moments of reminiscence.Alarabella held back her tears, gently stroking Reginald's chin, her voice filled with cheer. "It's getting late, you should go back."Reginald held her hand. "Let me take you to your building."Alarabella silently agreed.The night breeze carried a hint of intoxication as they strolled among the buildings, shadows dragging lazy footsteps under the dim light of the street lamps. Though they w