The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 347

Kali had been standing right outside the door while they talked, and she caught every word.

She blinked up at Hastings, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Hastings, I heard what you said. Come on, who is it you've fallen for? I want to know too."

She'd heard it all-every word—and she was certain that person wasn't her.

A sudden wave of panic washed over Kali. All these years, Hastings had always liked her. What had changed? Besides, he spent nearly all his time with their team, surrounded by a bunch of rowdy guys. When would he ever meet another girl? Kali just couldn't imagine who he'd even have the chance to like.

"She's just a jerk, not worth talking about," Hastings muttered, pressing his lips together. He and Citrine had never gotten along, and he had no intention of telling Kali.

Honestly, he wasn't even sure he liked her in the way everyone assumed. He couldn't quite put his feelings into words.

That night, Kali's mood crashed. She drank more than she should have.

With the alcohol buzzing in her veins, she made a show of leaning toward Hastings, hoping to rest her head on his shoulder.

hundred times before. But this time, before her head even

Kali froze in surprise.

the table, Theo and Quentin had also gone still, staring in

problem?" Theo and Quentin

to drink, she'd

had no idea why he'd

out. "I... I'm sorry, Kali. I just wasn't expecting you to

she forced a casual smile. "It's fine, I shouldn't have startled

her face stiffening until the last trace of cheer finally

Hastings sat in the farthest corner, putting as much

to sandwich Kali between them, cracking jokes and

the end of the night, Kali and Hastings had barely exchanged a word. The two of them, once inseparable, now seemed

the days passed and Hastings still didn't reach out—not a single text, not even a quick check-in-her worry turned