The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 674

Mr. Rogers squinted, absolutely certain. "No doubt about it—our CEO's in love."

Mr. Fuller let out a low whistle. "He's so smitten, he's put his own company on the back burner just to work at someone else's. Our boss is head-over-heels-it's a full-blown case of lovesickness."

"I mean, I'm genuinely curious now. What kind of woman could have our workaholic CEO so bewitched that he doesn't even care about his career anymore? Back in the day, a woman like that would have been accused of bringing down the kingdom-a real femme fatale."

That evening, Hilda called, inviting her home for dinner-it was a Saunders family gathering tonight.

Citrine had been living with the Saunders long enough to feel at home by now, all the old awkwardness and reserve gone.

When she got back, Citrine tossed her bag aside like always and went straight to look for her cat.

Before moving in, Citrine had asked if she could bring Happy with her, and everyone agreed. Hilda, who'd never really liked cats before, instantly transformed into a total cat enthusiast once Happy arrived.

Crestwood spoiled Happy with treats, and Hilda, almost every evening after work, would scoop Happy up-no matter how much the cat protested and smother him with kisses, like some overbearing matriarch determined to shower her pet with love.

Under Hilda's relentless affection, Happy had gotten noticeably chubbier; now, Citrine could barely lift him with one arm.

on the sofa, Citrine cradled Happy and lazily waved a cat toy for him

Citrine. All it took

to anyone else watching, it didn't look like she was entertaining the cat-if anything,

scene between girl and cat was peaceful and

family watched, feeling a glow of contentment they'd never known before; for

Citrine didn't notice anything

she grew tired of the game and glanced up-only to find several pairs of eyes at the dining table fixed

She froze, suddenly self-conscious.

brother, sister-those faces she was used to seeing. But there was

whom she'd

Citrine sat up straighter

she

lovely scene he'd

only snapped back to the present when he heard Citrine

"Citrine," Nigel said warmly.

moment had been so beautiful, full of light and comfort. He hadn't created anything so full of warmth in years hadn't even felt the inspiration to try.