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.

Jeanette was, Aline had nothing left

country, unaware that every move she

to flag down a cab to her hotel when someone pulled a hood over her head.

Back in Crestwood.

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

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

to meet Kali at a coffee shop; by the time

her cap, and got straight to the point. "Help me. I'm staying in Crestwood to go after Citrine, but first, I need to

a sly smile flickering on her lips. "Are you sure? My brother isn't someone you want to mess with. If he finds

mind." Jeanette's tone left no room

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

succeed or not

thanked her and

reflection. Her innocent look

nearly time, she grabbed her

inside, Jeanette made her way to the bar

alone at the counter, every so often taking a sip,

her