The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella and Romeo) novel Chapter 1618

"Just now." Betty’s voice trailed off, her gaze flitting over the distressed look on Serena's face. She didn't want to be the bearer of bad news, but honesty prevailed, "It's all of them."

"All of them??" Serena was dumbfounded, a silence enveloping her before she could muster another question, "Did they say when they'll be active again?"

"No."

Serena hadn't anticipated this level of austerity. To go without new clothes or shoes was one thing, but to have her cards cut off entirely was a whole different level of punishment.

All she did was bad-mouth Arabella a little bit. Was that really worth such a severe penalty? Arabella, the precious daughter who couldn't stand even the slightest discomfort without someone else paying the price.

And what about Serena? Locked up for days suffering - did her parents spare a single thought for her feelings?

Whether it was anger, grievance, or sheer desperation, something snapped in Serena. She swept her arm across the dinner table, sending plates and cutlery crashing to the floor.

Betty, frightened, bent down cautiously, "Ms. Serena."

"Get out," Serena's voice trembled with emotion.

"But you haven't eaten."