The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 509

Everyone present heard every word of the exchange between the two women.

Kali had listened as well, but what truly surprised her was discovering that the Vitaflux had originally come from Citrine-and that Hastings had given it to her. If Hastings was willing to hand over something as vital as Vitaflux, he must care for

her deeply.

A flicker of excitement sparked in Kali's eyes. She strode over to them and forced a smile at Citrine. "Citrine, please don't be upset. Hastings only gave me the Vitaflux because I haven't been well lately-he was just worried about me, that's all."

Citrine's expression soured with annoyance. "Don't call me 'sister.' We're not related by blood, and today I'm here as the chairwoman of CICI Group. You should address me as President Carmichael. Let's not pretend we're family."

Kali's face paled, her smile freezing awkwardly. She clenched her jaw, barely managing to choke out, "I'm sorry, President Carmichael."

If Citrine hadn't reminded her, Kali might have forgotten that the woman she loathed was now the powerful head of CICI Group. And unfortunately, she couldn't afford to offend her-not when Talbot was so eager to strike a deal with her.

Citrine paid her no further attention and pressed on, "So, you gave the Vitaflux to Jeanette?"

Kali nodded, owning up to it. "Yes. Jeanette is still part of our Glenwood family- she's my sister, after all. I heard her kidneys haven't been doing well, and her health's been fragile, so I thought I'd do something kind and pass the Vitaflux on to her."

be at least a bit shrewder

the Vitaflux out of sisterly love and concern for

she couldn't say why. Still, she nodded. "Jeanette is my sister-it's only

guests around them had been listening, and now a

Glenwood really is loyal and kind. Beautiful inside and out-no wonder she's Crestwood's leading

lucky to have such a generous, family-oriented

Glenwood

went, until Citrine suddenly let out a laugh-sharp and

rich," she said, her voice

"What do

Citrine didn't answer directly.

she looked right at

if I recall correctly your sister Jeanette was only recently brought back into the family by your uncle Dick. Meanwhile, your grandfather has raised you since you were a child. Tell me, which of the two are you closer

Citrine was going, but she replied

in her voice. "Of course I'm closer to my

Carmichael. Isn't that obvious?"