The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 757

When Curry approached with Wade, both Mr. and Mrs. Black's faces broke into wide, eager smiles as they hurried over to greet them.

Mrs. Black took Wade's hand warmly. "Wade! I'm so glad you could make it. Come in, have a seat," she said, all hospitality.

But though her words were for Wade, her gaze barely left Citrine the entire time.

Soon enough, she let go of Wade and turned her full attention to Citrine. "You must be President Saunders's daughter, aren't you?"

There was a sharp, calculated look in Mrs. Black's eyes that Citrine found instantly off-putting.

When Mrs. Black reached out as if to draw her in, Citrine calmly stepped back, offering only a polite nod to both hosts, her tone distant and formal. "Mr. Black. Mrs. Black."

Mrs. Black's smile faltered ever so slightly as she exchanged a quick glance with her husband, then forced herself to keep up the praise. "We've heard all about President Carmichael, such an impressive reputation for someone so young. Now that I see you in person, you really do have a remarkable presence."

Citrine merely dipped her head, modest as ever. "You're too kind, Mrs. Black."

Mr. Black gently pulled his wife aside and leaned forward in an exaggerated show of deference. "President Carmichael, you don't need to be modest. There isn't a soul in Crestwood who doesn't know about your achievements. Among all the bright young people here tonight, you're easily the most accomplished.”

faint crease appeared between Citrine's

was just another chance to chase after status and connections? Curry's face

His parents cared only for status, and for his ten-year-old brother-certainly not

father, who was practically bowing and scraping before Citrine, and finally spoke up. "Dad, the other guests are

shot him a scowl, clearly irritated. "Stay out of this. I wasn't talking

face transformed into an obsequious grin.

walked straight over

did she look up at Bartley with a slow, deliberate smile. "Mr Black, I'm just wondering-is today really your son's birthday party, or

in place, the words

continued in the same calm voice "Mr. Black, there are still

You

welcome them?"

she picked up her water glass and took a leisurely

"You're absolutely right, President Carmichael. I'll

he'd gone, Curry finally turned to Citrine. "Thank