The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 217

“Ms. Carmichael, how about a performance? It is Elbert's birthday, after all. Even if you didn't bring a proper gift, surely you won't begrudge us a song."

"Yes, Ms. Carmichael, you're a Carmichael, after all. Don't tell us you can't even play the piano?"

"Don't worry-even if you're not as talented as Miss Regina, we won't laugh at you. There aren't many prodigies like her, you know."

A number of guests began to chime in, some simply eager for drama, others— wealthy young men with less-than-honorable intentions-openly eyeing Citrine with bold, hungry gazes.

At that moment, Elbert finally spoke up.

“Ms. Carmichael, it's my birthday today. Since everyone wants to see you perform, do me the honor and play a piece, won't you?"

Elbert didn't actually believe Citrine had any real talent; he just wanted to see her make a spectacle of herself.

could see right through him. Without hesitation, she declined. “Elbert,

glanced at the piano, lips pressed together, her face pale and

than the murmurs around

a piano piece-what's the

even have the

Regina is so much more

of criticism directed at his granddaughter, Weston could barely contain himself. His face darkened,

say another word about my granddaughter! Tired of living, are you, picking a fight with the Carmichael family?" He almost never threw his family's weight around, but today

and if Citrine hadn't been begging him to keep his cool, Weston would have flipped the table

the room fell instantly

the top family in Havencrest-Weston's reaction left no

dared say another word, nor even risk underestimating

the old man. "Come on, Weston, we just wanted Ms. Carmichael