The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 430

This gathering was a golden opportunity-anyone who knew how to seize the moment could make powerful connections and gain access to invaluable resources, propelling their company to new heights, maybe even vaulting themselves into an entirely new social class.

Both mid-level executives and top brass had been looking forward to this evening's gala for weeks.

Citrine had arranged for her evening gown to be tailored well in advance.

That night, she arrived at the venue with Carlotta Yarbrough by her side. Citrine's goal tonight was simple: make an impression and quietly assess the room for promising business partners.

She wore a chic black cocktail dress, a bespoke necklace draped elegantly around her neck. Her hair was swept up in a graceful chignon, exposing the smooth lines of her face, and her makeup was subtle yet sophisticated-cool, refined, and commanding attention.

The moment she stepped inside, all eyes turned to her.

Business leaders and heirs alike couldn't help but glance her way.

"Which family's heiress is that? I've never seen her before, but she's stunning."

"No idea. Maybe the daughter of a small business owner?"

"She looks so poised, but honestly, she seems awfully young. If her family's already bringing her to events like this, she must be seriously doted on."

ignored the whispers, guiding Carlotta to a quiet lounge area

someone called

"Citrine."

from Citrine's eyes as she turned,

in a crisp suit, was approaching, a flicker of

are

she was using this event to announce herself as chairwoman of CICI Group, he'd never buy it. So Citrine paused, then changed tack. "Just here to network, meet a few people," she said

was this the same gala Raymond had invited her to yesterday, the one she'd declined? She bit her lip,

Raymond nodded.

promised to introduce Citrine as his successor. With only one invite for an heir allowed, she was naturally his first

crossed Citrine's face. "I'm sorry. I didn't realize this was the

now, and that's what matters." He'd been about to ask who she'd come with,

quite a few gentlemen in Crestwood.

surprised

a few words, and then followed Raymond into the

time in Crestwood, Raymond had built an impressive network, and most of them had

led Citrine

to introduce her whenever they ran into someone he knew. "This is my daughter,

I hope you'll look out for her in