Chapter 359 Naomi’s Misguided Intervention

As if the Hamilton family was on the brink of starvation–what was with the pathetic performance?

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“I truly didn’t intend anything,” Naomi said, lowering her head in apparent shame, her voice trembling as if she might cry.

“That’s enough. Let’s just eat,” Florence interjected, shooting a warning look at Ethan and Alfred. “And you two–no more bickering like that at the table.”

“Mmhmm,” Ethan and Alfred murmured in unison.

The previously lively atmosphere had turned rigid and uncomfortably quiet.

After just a few more bites, Naomi found she had completely lost her appetite and set her fork down.

“Mom, Ethan, Alfred, Arabella, I’m finished. Please take your time,” she said softly:

“That’s all you’re having?” Florence asked, concerned. “Try to eat a little more.”

Naomi shook her head. “I had some snacks at the office before heading home, so I’m not very hungry right now.”

“I see. Well, if you get hungry later, there’s always a late–night snack,” Florence said.

“Okay. I’ll head upstairs then,” Naomi replied before leaving the dining room and retreating to her bedroom.

Almost as soon as Naomi left, the mood at the table lightened again.

“Arabella, try this.”

“Have some of this too.”

“Ethan, Alfred, dig in.”

Listening to the resumed laughter and easy chatter drifting up from below, Naomi felt a bitter, sour ache in her chest.

Back in her room, feeling utterly dejected, Naomi called Ruby.

“Naomi,” Ruby answered, sounding slightly puzzled. “Calling so late–is everything alright?”

“It’s nothing major. I just feel really down,” Naomi said, recounting the dinner incident. “I genuinely didn’t mean anything by it,” she added, her voice thick with sorrow and frustration.

“If it were anyone else, I might give them the benefit of the doubt, but this is Arabella we’re talking about. Isn’t this just her usual pattern?” Ruby said dismissively. “It’s not like you’re encountering her tactics for the first time. This is her standard play

“Maybe it’s my fault. I shouldn’t have spoken without thinking in that situation. I don’t know if Mom is upset with me now she even mentioned earlier that she’d invited quite a few new friends for me to meet at the birthday party,” Naomi fretted

“Aunt Florence really said that?” Ruby sounded surprised.

“Yes, she said it right at the dinner table, in front of everyone,” Naomi confirmed.

Ruby let out a low, pleased laugh. “Arabella is just jealous of you.”

“Jealous of me?” Naomi frowned. “Because Mom is introducing me to new people?”

“Exactly,” Ruby said smugly. “In Doranor’s social circles, anyone the Hamiltons consider a friend is either from wealth or influence. Arabella wishes she could have those opportunities but can’t. Of course she’s jealous.”

“I do feel like Mom still values me,” Naomi said hesitantly, then added. “Maybe you’re right.”

Ruby’s tone was proud. “Of course I’m right. Think about it–she was raised in a modest background, but you were brought up and educated by the Hamiltons. On important occasions, you are the one who represents the family.”

“Hmph, she’s definitely jealous,” Ruby snorted. “When the time comes, you have to completely outshine her. Let everyone in Doranor see what a true Hamilton heiress is really like.”

As if that scheming, petty Arabella could ever compare!

“Ruby, hearing you say that really does make me feel better. I’m not so upset anymore,” Naomi said, a small smile finally returning.

“You shouldn’t just feel better–you should be thrilled about it,” Ruby encouraged.

“Mm, thank you, Ruby. How about we go to that jewelry exhibition tomorrow? I heard they have some new pieces on display,” Naomi suggested.

Ruby seized the opportunity. “Really? I had my eye on a necklace there last time.”

“Sure, we can go check it out together then.”

“It’s a deal.”

After hanging up, Naomi hummed a cheerful tune to herself, her earlier gloom entirely dispelled.

So what if Arabella was jealous of her? She was the epitome of what a Hamilton heiress should be.

The sun was shining brightly.

Arabella arrived at Colton’s studio.

Seeing her, Colton smiled. “I have your coffee ready.”

“You knew I was coming?” Arabella raised an eyebrow.

“Of course. Knowing you, those designs and paintings wouldn’t have slowed you down for long.” Colton said confidently.

Arabella sat down and took a sip of the coffee. “Perfect.”

“Made it just for you,” he replied. It was bound to suit her taste.

She handed over the finished sketches and design drafts. “The rest is in your hands.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Colton said, carefully storing the materials.

He then took out a sleek case. “This is finished.”

Arabella opened it and glanced inside. A delicate crystal necklace lay nestled against the velvet. A slight, satisfied smile touched. her lips. “Excellent. I’m impressed with the turnaround time.”

“I had the workshop prioritize it. I wasn’t sure of your timeline and didn’t want to hold up your plans,” he explained. He’d made sure it was ready at the earliest possible moment.

“Mm, it will indeed be useful very soon,” Arabella said, offering no further details, and Colton didn’t press.

After a moment, Colton asked, “How is that other matter progressing?”

Arabella’s expression darkened slightly. “I expect there should be a resolution soon.”

“Are

you sure you don’t need me to handle anything?” Colton double–checked.

Cedella

Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.