The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 715

Herschel Saunders shot Gorman a furious glare, his jaw clenched as if he were about to launch into another tirade-until his eyes landed on Hilda and her son, standing quietly behind Gorman.

"Citrine." Herschel's anger faltered, worry flickering across his face.

He rounded on Gorman, voice booming with outrage. "If you won't let her leave, then don't bother showing up at my birthday dinner. Take that woman and get out -both of you!"

Without waiting for a response, Herschel strode over to his beloved granddaughter and promised in a tone brimming with grandfatherly pride, "Don't worry, Citrine. Today's my birthday, and I won't let anyone ruin it for you."

He shot a withering look at both Gorman and Jeanette Iverson, then turned back to Citrine, his features instantly softening. The anger melted away, replaced by a tenderness rarely seen in the old man.

"I've told that fool to take his poisonous companion and leave. I won't let them upset you, sweetheart."

Gorman had always been the golden child-the model son who excelled at everything, from school to work. The Saunders family had never once uttered a harsh word against him.

crossed a line and raised

was ashen with humiliation and disbelief. He whirled back to Herschel, his voice cracking. "Granddad, we looked for my sister for years!

his gaze catching

a cold. But those eyes-Gorman remembered them vividly, always carrying a

Citrine, eyes widening in shock. "You...

The resemblance was uncanny-her features were nearly a mirror image

with disappointment as she met his stare. She shouldn't have let herself hope for

him with calm

focus narrowed to Citrine, his composure slipping. "Are you

His voice

held his gaze, silent and

upset his granddaughter, Herschel grabbed him by the arm and yanked him back. "You idiot. The DNA test doesn't lie. If you scare your sister, I swear I'll break your legs."

moment Gorman saw Citrine's face, all doubt had vanished. But excitement and