The Divorced Heiress’s Revenge

Chapter 2089

"Why?" Annabeth asked, clearly unwilling to do so.

"Why do you think?" Bella's eyes glimmered with a hint of reproach. "I'm worried that if your parents find out you gave away a family heirloom as a wedding gift, it could strain relations between the two countries. You're a pampered princess. You're free to do as you please without worrying about the consequences. But you can't ignore how your actions affect others. If you cause trouble, someone else might have to pay the price. Do you think that's fair for them?"

Annabeth's expression turned glum as guilt crept in. She lowered her head, her delicate fingers fiddling with the hem of her dress.

"Actually... I had my own reasons."

Bella tilted her head, seeking out Annabeth's tear-filled eyes. Her gaze was soft as she gently exposed the young princess's intentions.

"You know I treat Carrie like my own sister, so you went all out, hoping to win my favor. You thought if you impressed me, I might help you get closer to my third brother, right?"

Annabeth's cheeks flushed a deep red as she stammered, "You... You figured it out... Does this make me a schemer? Am I an awful person? I'm sorry..."

her heart soften. She gently stroked the girl's

hard on yourself. I never said that. Besides, using a bit of strategy to get close to someone you like is fine. What's wrong with that? As long as you're not hurting anyone

in a small, wounded voice. "I like Declan... I like him so much that I'd give up being a princess just to be with

fell silent for

true. The Thompson family's wealth might not be far

too much. Anyone listening might think she was

"Bella, please help me."

herself into Bella's arms, her soft, delicate face nestled against her chest, filled with pleading and dependence. "After all... We did share a bed once, and you're Declan's favorite sister. If you speak for me...

began to cry. Tears streamed down her face like a

comforted her, feeling a

earth did her third brother say that night to be so cruel and hurtful that it brought this once- proud princess to her knees and reduced her to such

awful, Bella?" Annabeth's sobs grew louder, her voice