The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 291

The sun in Crestwood was far more relentless than back in Havencrest.

On a sweltering hundred-degree day, four girls pushed through a round of push- ups under the blazing sun.

Although all four were struggling through the same drill, only Citrine's form was flawless her movements precise, her breathing steady, as if the exercise cost her nothing at all.

Meanwhile, after barely reaching their fiftieth push-up, Ingrid and the other two girls had collapsed, sprawled on the ground, gasping for air and utterly spent.

"Don't play dead. Up. If you don't finish on time, I'll add another hundred," barked Sergeant Hastings, a flash of scorn in his eyes as he walked over and nudged the trio with the toe of his boot.

The threat of extra reps was all the motivation they needed. Groaning, the three girls dragged themselves upright and forced themselves to continue.

Soon after, Citrine finished her set. She stood, snapped to attention, and called out, "Sir, I'm done."

Hastings blinked, incredulous. He shot a glance at the assistant instructor beside him. "She's finished?"

gave a

of the boys wouldn't manage that.

finally finished, staggering back to the group,

whistle dangling from his neck and blew a sharp blast, his voice

girls snapped to attention,

caught their breath than Hastings announced, "Military

Jane, and Lisa

after the push-up ordeal, none of them dared protest. They lined up with the others, collected the wipes, and

was about to continue when his gaze landed on a face in the crowd-Citrine's, impossibly fair and almost glowing. His brows knitted together, his stare

froze, genuinely

Hastings thought, irritation simmering. He barked, "I'll give you one more chance.

calm but firm. "Sir, are you the one not

awkward silence

had expected Citrine to answer back so