The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 497

Jeanette stood there, her face drained of color, unable to muster even a single word in response.

But Citrine wasn't finished with her-not by a long shot.

With a cold smile, Citrine looked Jeanette straight in the eye and twisted the knife

a little deeper. "You've always been obsessed with competing with me, Jeanette. But honestly, have you ever realized we're just not on the same level?" She tapped her temple for emphasis.

Then, making a show of it, Citrine held one hand high above her head and the other down by her waist. "Face reality, Jeanette. I'm up here, and you... you're still down there. You were never even on my radar."

She let out a low laugh before continuing, "Now I'm a top student at Crestwood University, a bestselling author, the CEO of CICI Group. My reputation precedes me, and my future's bright. But you? You bombed your exams, ended up at some no-name college, haven't picked up a single useful skill, and spend your nights drifting from one club to the next. Jeanette, your life's already half ruined. Honestly, I'm anxious for you-what on earth are you going to do with yourself?" As she finished, Citrine's lips curled into a taunting smile.

Every word landed like a punch to Jeanette's gut.

She clenched her fists so tightly her knuckles turned white, a sudden wave of fear washing over her.

She couldn't stand the thought of living in Citrine's shadow for the rest of her life— she wanted nothing more than to crush Citrine under her heel.

Citrine, satisfied, gave one last smirk before strolling away.

People nearby, who had been shamelessly eavesdropping, whispered among themselves about the mother and daughter duo before finally dispersing.

approached a waiter and requested a glass of red wine. With the wine in

four men sat around a long table, deep in discussion

Mr.

let out

by the sound, only to see Citrine standing

Opulence Ball, Citrine's face had

ordinary figure. The three men immediately rose to their feet, each one treating her with a mix of respect

much about President Carmichael-it's an honor

your reputation

Carmichael, pleasure to

greeted her one by one, and

hand, went pale as soon as he recognized Citrine. Memories from the past

day inthe

through his

with a bright smile. "Mr. Glenwood, don't tell me you've forgotten! You used to give me piano lessons,

days, all thanks to you. I really

as he stammered, "What are

couldn't hide the fear in his voice-this girl was absolutely