The Double ( or More ?) Life of The Fake Heiress

Chapter 5

Mirabella’s laugh was a rare bloom of gentleness on her usually frosty face. She tenderly smoothed the wisps of silver hair at her grandmother’s temples, her voice softening like one might use to coax a child to sleep. “I’ve sorted out all the transfer paperwork. It’s time for me to head out. You’ve got to take good care of yourself. Remember to take your meds on time, okay? Once I’m settled back in the city, I’ll come by for a visit. Deal?”

Catherine felt the soothing touch on her cheek and struggled to swallow, her throat parched. After a moment, she grasped Mirabella’s hand in her own. “Alright, I’ll do as you say, my dear,”

“Good,” Mirabella said, nodding in satisfaction.

Mandy, who had been standing by, felt a pang of jealousy. She had talked herself hoarse, trying to persuade her mother to come back to the city with her without success. Yet here was this brat, uttering just a few words, and her grandmother acquiesced? She had clearly underestimated Mirabella’s ability to charm and cajole!

Just then, the wail of an ambulance siren announced its arrival outside. Soon after, thanks to Mandy’s insistent demands, the paramedics carried Catherine to the ambulance. Before leaving for the hospital, Mandy did not forget to give Mirabella a few parting shots, warning her to make herself scarce.

her room and pulled out a suitcase from under the bed, already packed and ready.

transformed from Mirabelle to Mirabella, she had stayed not only because she was concerned about Catherine’s health but also because she was in the middle of her junior year of high school. So, she had made a deal with her biological parents. Once the semester ended, she would transfer schools for her senior year. Mirabella drew a letter from an old desk drawer, dusted off the edges with her slender fingers, and slipped

her suitcase, Mirabella had just closed the gate when a car honked nearby. She looked up, squinting at the sleek black sedan that was making the noise. Despite its modest Volkswagen badge, the car’s lines were cool and slick–a subtle flamboyance under its

on his head. He leaned casually against the door, watching. Mirabella

face. As she drew near,

gave Mirabella a once–over. His gaze finally

“Eavesdropping isn’t

lightly. “Did you forget our houses are only

neighbor boy? You’re loitering here just to mock your lifesaver?”