The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 654

Wade's face was dark as a thundercloud, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. But just then, he felt a small, soft hand gently tug at his fist, prying his fingers open one by one.

He glanced down, caught off guard by the sight of his little sister's eyes looking up at him—so bright and clear, it was like staring into a sky full of stars.

She gazed at him with utter seriousness. "Big brother, do you want me to help you get your dignity back?"

Wade had no idea that the storm on his face melted away the moment he met his sister's shining eyes, leaving only an expression of helpless affection.

He couldn't help but laugh when she offered to "get his dignity back." She must be joking, he thought. Playing along, he said, "Sure. Your big brother's had a rough day. Citrine, I'll leave it to you to settle the score."

No sooner had he spoken than Citrine turned her attention to Jonah, who sat across from them, looking smug and triumphant.

A sly smile curled on her lips as she scoffed, "Jonah, you won, I'll give you that. But my brother kept his end of the bargain. Yet you still had to humiliate him. Don't you think that's a little ungracious?"

"What did you say?" Jonah's expression soured in an instant. He'd been so

absorbed in mocking Wade that he hadn't even noticed Citrine until she spoke. When he finally looked at her, a flicker of surprise flashed across his face, but he quickly looked away, feigning indifference.

"Don't think just because you're pretty, I'm going to go

ignored his bluster. "That limited edition race car of yours? It was a birthday gift

"How about this: let's race. Just you and me. What do you

Monica and Wade's faces

in concern. "No, Citrine, I don't agree. The Skysunder Ridge track is dangerous, and Jonah's a professional

worth risking yourself for Wade's sake. He can

Saunders family, Wade kad already seen her race once

him out of a tough spot then so he knew

didn't mean he was okay with her

get humiliated a little. There's no reason for you to take on that

never forgive himself, but neither family-the Carmichaels or

the others chimed in, trying to talk Citrine out of

racing for years. wouldn't take this on if I wasn't sure I could handle it." She knew they

always finished what she started and never picked

long, silent exchange, Monica and Wade finally gave

thought for a moment. "Okay, but on one condition-I'm riding