The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 25

Shards of glass littered the entryway, crunching under Citrine's shoes as she stepped inside. The whole restaurant was a disaster zone-pots and pans strewn everywhere, overturned tables and chairs lying in chaotic heaps across the floor.

Citrine took in the wreckage with a quick glance, reaching for her phone to call and find out where everyone was. Before she could dial, a sharp, piercing cry echoed from the private room at the back.

She turned and pushed the door open. Just as she expected, Alicia was lounging carelessly atop a dining table, flanked by several broad-shouldered men in black suits.

In the corner, Amelia crouched by herself. Her parents clung to a little boy, shielding him tightly in their arms as they sobbed. The looks they shot Amelia weren't those of worried parents, but the bitter, hateful glares of people staring down an enemy.

Citrine didn't linger on the scene. She quickly looked away from the family of three and strode over to Amelia, helping her to her feet. "Hey, honey, are you okay?"

As she spoke, Citrine's gaze swept over Amelia from head to toe, only relaxing when she saw there were no visible injuries.

"I'm fine, Citrine. Really," Amelia sniffled, her eyes rimmed with tears. She'd convinced herself Citrine wouldn't come-but here she was, danger and all.

did Citrine turn to Alicia. "What is it you

in a few minutes

eyes, then suddenly smiled. "Because

of mind games Alicia

was caught off guard-this wasn't the

"If it weren't for you, I'd never have messed with the Lawsons. Amelia's only in this mess because she's friends

didn't waver. She didn't even hesitate. "Why should I feel

hit a wall, her words faltering. Frustrated, she snapped, "If you hadn't crossed me, Amelia wouldn't be caught

who smashed up their restaurant. What does that have to do with me? Did I make you do any of this?" Citrine shot back, genuinely baffled by

Alicia had no comeback. Fuming, she glared

think she cares about you, but clearly, you're the only one who

pressed her lips together,

gotten involved with