The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

On the day of the gala, Citrine brought only Sherman, who posed as her assistant and walked close by her side.

Sherman couldn't help but praise her. "Citrine, only you could pull this off. Even the high society crowd overseas can't help but extend you an olive branch after hearing about everything you've accomplished."

Citrine shook her head. "Not exactly. That might play some part, but the real reason is that the Archer family needs weapons and all the arms manufacturing overseas runs through our corporation. I'm just making a calculated bet, that's all."

Sherman beamed with pride. "No matter the reason, my sister's the best there is." His eyes sparkled as he looked at her, radiating admiration.

As soon as they entered the ballroom, all eyes turned their way.

Citrine was the only woman from Northriver invited to this elite Magnolia gathering a fact that made her stand out immediately.

Some of the foreign guests took in Citrine's beauty, but just as quickly, their crude words tore into her identity and abilities.

"A Northriver woman, of all things? Since when did we let that sort of nobody into a Magnolia high society event?"

"Hmph, as the Northriver saying goes, she's just a clown. Not worth our attention." "She's got a pretty face, but that's about it."

The Magnolia elites, dressed in bespoke suits and glittering jewels, looked at Citrine as if she were some unsightly blemish on their perfect gathering.

Sherman's temper flared at the nasty comments. "Citrine, these arrogant bastards have no idea how to keep their mouths shut."

to march over, but Citrine caught him by the arm in a flash. "Raymond, we're

but

stares, and calmly found herself a seat. hout it all, she remained perfectly posed-almost

so-a

if

around

while, the Magnolia crowd grew bored of speculating about

young man with blond hair and striking blue eyes sat in a wheelchair, watching the scene unfold below. A faint smile played at

Group might be from Northriver, but she's certainly

rest of the guests and let out a soft, derisive laugh. "These people can only see her gender

They'll regret that soon

butler nodded

lingering

piercing eyes from

a poised smile, she raised her wine glass in a

the room, and Vester-surprised-paused. No one had ever dared look him in the

woman was nothing like

Vester offered her a