The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Citrine moved through the water with the grace of a mermaid-effortless, radiant, and completely at home beneath the waves.

Behind her, Sebastian couldn't hide the awe in his eyes as he watched her glide through the blue expanse. For once, he didn't even have to try to conceal how captivated he was.

The world under the sea was dazzling. Vivid coral formations, seashells glinting in the filtered sunlight, and creatures in every color imaginable-these were sights the land could never offer.

Citrine was bubbling with excitement, eager to share her joy with someone else. When she surfaced near Sebastian, she beckoned him over with a playful wave of her hand.

He swam to her side without hesitation.

She pointed at a cluster of brilliant coral, her eyes crinkling with delight as she looked at him. In that moment, Sebastian seemed to feel her happiness as if it were his own.

Then a school of colorful fish darted by, scattering rainbows through the water. Citrine's eyes sparkled. She slipped the waterproof camera from around her neck and handed it to Sebastian, forming a picture frame with her fingers to show what she wanted.

Sebastian understood instantly and flashed her an OK sign.

With a quick smile, Citrine turned and swam toward the swirling fish, her slender form cutting gracefully through the water.

Sebastian's gaze softened, and he raised the camera to capture her-preserving that perfect, breathtaking moment forever.

fish like a mermaid born of

pictures, even switching to video to record her laughter and the way the sunlight danced on

Citrine took the camera and insisted on getting some shots of Sebastian,

a selfie together. No matter what pose she struck, Sebastian was happy

so close, so natural-left no doubt. They looked just like any couple in love, sharing a

and sharp. Anger thudded in

warning, he grabbed Sebastian and yanked him away from Citrine with a force

furrowed as she shot Hastings

clear how she felt,

need to guess; he could sense her

off, he gestured at Citrine: pointing off to the side,

these waters before, years ago, so he knew

out as if to wrap an arm around her waist. Citrine instantly pulled back, her expression

darkened; anger flashed in his eyes. He swam to Citrine's side, placing himself between her and

Hastings had never liked

already a thorn