The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 32

Everyone assumed it was Citrine who started the fire-that she'd tried to kill Jeanette.

Overnight, she became the Iverson family's pariah.

Later, when she went back to school, Citrine sought out Alicia, and Alicia promised she'd come to the house that night to testify on her behalf.

That evening, Citrine was in high spirits; finally, she would clear her name. But reality was cruel.

The girl who once stood by her side through everything-Alicia-pointed at her and said, word by word, "It was her. She's the one who tried to burn Jeanette alive."

The last light in Citrine's eyes flickered out.

From that moment on, she lost her left ear-and her best friend.

Citrine pulled herself out of the memory.

Suddenly, she laughed.

shouldn't I hate you?" she said, her voice tinged with bitterness. Betrayal was the one thing

this is why you're taking revenge on me?" Citrine shook her head. "The Chase family brought this on themselves.

acquiring everything they owned-none of that had anything to do with Alicia

only interested in what the

family?" Alicia's voice trembled. She already knew the answer, but saying it

Citrine had once risked her

might not have done the same. Citrine didn't hesitate for

In that moment, regret

owed Citrine an apology. Now, she was afraid if she didn't say it, she'd

day, guilt gnawed at her every time she saw Citrine. Over time, that guilt twisted

hated that Citrine ended their friendship because of what

made her pick fights, bully and provoke Citrine at

became more like the rest

kind, gentle girl she'd once

this far-there was

to

real Iverson heiress, and if I didn't lie to protect