The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 716

Even though Citrine had managed to resolve every crisis he threw at her, each of Gorman's schemes had been aimed at destroying her company-pushing her

right to the edge.

Now, Gorman's face was ghostly pale, consumed by regret.

He'd finally found his long-lost sister, only to realize how terribly he'd treated her. The guilt was crushing. Citrine must hate him now-how could she not?

Usually the epitome of composure, Gorman was now as lost as a child. He hung his head and apologized over and over. "I'm sorry, Citrine. I... I didn't know it was you. All these years, the Saunders family searched everywhere, but we couldn't find you. When you appeared, I thought you were just another imposter. I couldn't let myself believe you were really back."

He rushed to explain about Jeanette as well. "When I saw Jeanette getting attacked outside Neon Hive, I just felt sorry for her. It made me think of you, that's all. It wasn't anything else. You're about the same age, and I was scared that if I ignored her, my own sister might be helpless and alone somewhere too. Citrine, I never meant for any of this to happen. I was wrong. I'm so sorry."

Jeanette hadn't expected things to unravel like this, nor had she ever imagined Gorman saved her because of Citrine. The realization made her heart sink.

Gorman didn't spare Jeanette so much as a glance. He kept his eyes fixed on Citrine, unblinking, desperate for a sign of forgiveness.

Citrine shifted uncomfortably under his gaze, her expression as icy as ever. She met his apology with a steady, unwavering voice. "I don't forgive you."

to herself that Gorman's explanation had moved her, but she simply couldn't

shadow passing over his features. Disappointment settled

one in the Saunders family rushed to defend

let out a cold snort. "Serves you right. You made this

satisfied by Gorman's disgrace; after

one last glance before turning her attention to Jeanette. Her voice was firm, her finger pointed in command. "Send her back where she came from. If you won't do it, I have no problem handling it

broke down, her eyes red and pleading. "Mr. Gorman, please! For all the breakfasts I made you these past few

If I go back there,

an object, tormented at every turn. These past few days had been a taste of

and resolute as he locked eyes with Citrine. "Don't worry, Citrine. I swear, I'll

hesitate for

walked over and came to a stop right in

in, her voice softened to a mockingly gentle whisper. "Congratulations, Jeanette. You've just been cast out

from Jeanette's face, her smile as sharp as a blade. "Starting

face drained of