The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Watching that flustered figure hurry away, Vester couldn't help but let out a quiet chuckle.

"Fascinating," he murmured, a hint of regret in his tone. "Pity she's already got a boyfriend."

He didn't wheel himself back until her silhouette had completely vanished from sight.

Citrine rushed through the corridors, only slowing down when she reached her bedroom. Her hand paused on the doorknob.

Why am I acting so guilty? she wondered. I haven't done anything wrong.

Besides, by now he should be asleep.

A wave of relief washed over her, and she finally pushed open the door.

The crystal chandelier spilled light from the ceiling, flooding the room with brightness. Before she could take in the scene, she felt a burning gaze land squarely on her—a gaze impossible to ignore. Citrine instinctively looked up, and their eyes met.

Sebastian sat on the sofa, legs crossed, chin tilted up as he watched her. "You're back late," he remarked.

His words sounded reproachful, but his eyes were anything but; there was only warmth there, even a touch of tenderness.

Citrine relaxed. "I stayed to talk with Mr. Vester for a bit," she said softly.

"What did you talk about?" Sebastian blurted out.

He regretted it instantly. He shouldn't have asked. There was nothing between them he had no right to pry. Would she think he was overbearing? Invasive?

Sebastian's face grew a shade paler.

But Citrine didn't seem to care. She sat down in front of him, unfazed.

"It wasn't much. We were just testing each other's intentions," she explained. "He wanted to know if I was open to working with the Archer family, and I wanted to see if he was on their side."

"In the end, it went pretty well."

She hesitated, then added, "Still, we should keep an eye on Vester."noveldrama

"You want him on our side?" Sebastian caught her meaning, his tone a little more serious.

Citrine nodded.

Vester hadn't needed to say more he knew that involving him could make things much simpler. If he were in her shoes, he'd do the same.

Citrine closed her eyes and leaned back on the sofa.

It was her fifth day abroad. She couldn't help but wonder how Raymond

Carmichael was faring now.

She'd warned the island's leader not

to lay a finger on anyone from Mirage Cay, and she doubted Jeff would dare cross her. But the terror of that place was branded so deeply into her memory that she couldn't help but worry.

No, she needed to get evidence-fast-so she could bring Raymond and the others trapped on Mirage Cay home, safe and sound.

Sebastian watched her, catching the fatigue and worry etched on her face.

Until now, no matter the situation, she'd always been a bundle of energy, bright and unstoppable, as if nothing in the world could drag her down.

Seeing her so drained was rare. Sebastian wasn't sure why, but it left a dull ache in his chest.

She was only twenty. At this age, she should be out living life, enjoying her youth. Yet here she was, burdens no one her age should bear.

standing tall, carrying was enjo

After a moment, Citrine straightened up.

She'd always been tough on herself, never allowing more than an hour for sadness or despair. Over time, she'd trained herself to snap out of it, never letting negativity take root.

"Alright, time to get some rest," she said, rising from the sofa. Her expression was

calm and steady again, as if nothing had ever disturbed her.