The True Heiress's Return

Chapter

5

As cousins, Benji knew Walter's stubbornness more than anyone else. Even in the widest time, Walter had always steered clear of women, and the last three years had made him even more distant. But Shakira? She was the unexpected twist that might break that pattern. 'Looks like guys never forget their first time, no matter how tough they are. Even Walter isn't immune, Benji thought. Walter caught on to Benji's teasing and snorted dismissively. His lips twisted into a sardonic smile, but his eyes showed no amusement. "She's special."

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Deep down, he thought, "This woman has the guts to challenge me more than once, saying she's here to help. There's no way I'm letting her off easy. If she wants to stick around to treat me, I'll show her just how serious this is!'

Sakira was unpacking in her room at the Nelson residence. A few months ago, when she was brought back, she had only taken a backpack, a laptop, and a sketchbook. But now, no matter how hard she searched, her sketchbook was nowhere to be found.

She scanned the small room, about the size of a tiny studio apartment, and tried to remember the last time she'd drawn-it seemed to be when Yvette came over to help her pick a birthday dress. Shaking the thoughts away, Shakira picked up her things and headed for the door. As she pushed it open, she found Yvette waiting for her. Spotting Shakira with her luggage, Yvette bit her lip, putting on that annoying act again. "Shakira..."

Shakira wasn't interested in Yvette's faux innocence and walked right past her, ignoring her feeble attempts to engage,

her expression

their affection. She acted like the perfect sibling, getting along

wouldn't let Shakira make it. With a few manipulations and some fake tears, she convinced their family that Shakira was two-faced and intentionally bullying

unfair treatment-until tonight. Yvette couldn't help but think, 'Shakira's acting really strange! She scolded her brothers, argued with Mom, and

instead of just suggesting she would walk away. Who would be crazy enough to give up being part of the Nelson family? 'It was clear that tonight was all about me, soaking up all the attention and love from the family and the influential figures in town. Meanwhile, Shakira was stuck in her room, feeling completely overlooked. With such a stark contrast, how could she not feel jealous? 'After all that drama, this is probably just a

No matter how much Shakira works,

people coming up the stairs, and a sly glint flashed in her

have selfishly enjoyed my last birthday at the Nelson family and made you sad. I didn't even open my gifts, and they're all yours! I'll bring them to

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Chapter 5

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