The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Everyone else at the table was clinking glasses and trading toasts, but only Citrine and Sherman seemed untouched by the lively atmosphere, as if they existed in a world apart.

Sherman leaned in and whispered, "Citrine, even though you control the weapons business the Archer family needs to partner with, they might show you some respect. But I doubt Vester would ever invite you to their estate."

"He absolutely will," Citrine replied, her tone unwavering.

Sherman stared at her, wide-eyed.

She clarified, "Though, it'll be under the pretense of treating Vester's legs."

Citrine went on, her voice low and certain. "Vester might not be favored in the Archer family-he's not even the head's legitimate son-but he's not someone to underestimate. He's spent years searching for a cure for his legs. I'm sure he'll come to me sooner or later. It's only a matter of time."

As she finished speaking, Citrine caught sight of a man from the Northriver family approaching from across the room.

He was dressed in a sharp suit, engaged in quiet conversation with a Magnolia gentleman nearby, but his eyes-restless and sharp-never left her.

What's he doing here?

Citrine frowned slightly, eyes scanning him from head to toe, trying to figure out which of his personalities she was dealing with tonight.

A moment later, Sebastian Vesper strode over and stopped directly in front of her.

was nearly certain now-this

brings you here?" she asked, her voice calm but laced

his

Sebastian was

parting back home, he'd had someone investigate and

Citrine would try to save

few favors and made sure he was on the guest

her eyes, but

with concern as he looked

mastermind behind Mirage Cay

only real reason she would attend an event like

figured it out, Citrine didn't bother denying

her eyes clear and steady. "So you came here for me?" Sebastian

handed her his

out before she could stop it.

"Hm?" Sebastian looked confused.

for words.

had always been a mystery to her.

her own way: