The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 661

Nigel hadn't planned on attending the family gathering. He only changed his mind when he found out that his little niece-the same girl who'd deciphered his artwork the other day-would be there.

She was the only person in years who truly understood his paintings. That realization filled him with excitement.

When he finally met Citrine, he felt an immediate connection, as if he'd found a kindred spirit. Without quite knowing why, he found himself genuinely liking this newfound niece.

After a bit of small talk, Hilda excused herself, leading her daughter away.

Partway through, Hilda was flagged down by a group of old friends and business associates, and wandered off to catch up with them.

Feeling a bit bored, Citrine drifted over to the dessert table in search of something sweet.

She couldn't help but notice how beautifully presented everything was. The little cakes and pastries looked almost too pretty to eat. Citrine swallowed, her appetite instantly piqued.

Just as she reached for a delicate pink butterfly-shaped petit four that had caught her eye, a hand shot out and snatched the plate from right under her fingertips.

Startled, Citrine turned and found herself looking at a girl holding the very cake she'd wanted. The girl stared back at her, her gaze sharp, openly hostile.

It was obvious to anyone watching: this girl was looking for trouble.

thinning. "I saw that cake

"So what? I got to it

all the desserts, and Citrine had fallen for it at first glance. Now, having it snatched away felt

sweet. It was a shame

Citrine said

girl smirked, as though she'd just heard the punchline to

tone was needling,

could answer, the girl suddenly smashed the

cake was nothing but a pink, sugary

waste it than let you have it," the girl sneered, flashing Citrine a triumphant,

didn't get far. Before her words had fully left her lips, Citrine slapped her-

food deserves a slap," Citrine said

from a passing waiter's tray and wiped

hand pressed to her cheek, glared at Citrine, disbelief and outrage etched across her features.

short, scornful laugh. "What's stopping me from hitting someone like

allow herself to be bullied or wronged. If someone pushed

was furious. This little brat looked so sweet and innocent on