The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 553

Noticing Jeanette's silence, Aline's face turned pale.

"Jeanette, you're not actually thinking of staying in Crestwood, are you?"

Jeanette didn't answer, but Aline saw the truth in her eyes. She rushed forward and gripped Jeanette's shoulders, her tone deadly serious. "Don't be foolish, Jeanette!"

Her expression hardened. "Now that Dick's in prison, we have nobody left to rely on in Crestwood. Your father's reputation is ruined, and there's no way I can marry you off to one of those wealthy men anymore. If we stay here, we'll be trapped, and you know as well as I do that Citrine isn't going to let us off easy."

Jeanette's face twisted with frustration. She couldn't accept it.

She used to have everything that once belonged to Citrine-clothes, toys, her bedroom, even the affection of the entire family. She had always been the winner. So why was Citrine Carmichael still living a better life than her?

Jeanette clenched her fists, making up her mind.

She looked at Aline, determination burning in her eyes. "Mom, take the money and go overseas. I'm staying in Crestwood. Once I've made a name for myself, I'l bring you home in style."

"But how will you survive here on your own? Citrine isn't going to leave you alone." Aline stared at her in disbelief, worry etched all over her face.

"Don't worry, Mom. I have a plan." Jeanette's hand tightened around the gold locket at her neck, her eyes flashing with resolve.

Seeing how firm Jeanette was, Aline had nothing left

next day, Aline caught the earliest flight out of the country, unaware that every move she made

was about to flag down a cab to

Back in Crestwood.

convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault and financial crimes. He

sitting at home, watching the news. When it ended,

Kali at a coffee shop; by the time Jeanette

the seat across from her, slipped off her cap, and got straight to the point. "Help me. I'm staying in Crestwood to go

sure? My brother isn't someone you want to mess with. If he finds out what you're

mind." Jeanette's

her a small, knowing smile. "My brother's going to

succeed or not is

her and

kept her makeup soft and natural, and checked her reflection. Her innocent look contrasted sharply with

it was nearly time, she grabbed her purse and

bar

at the counter, every so often taking a

delicate white dress made her stand out starkly against the thumping