The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress novel Chapter 17

On Friday after school, Citrine made sure to tell the Carmichael family's driver not to pick her up.

She'd bought a few things and taken a cab by herself to a private estate in Crestwood.

The place was tucked away in the woods on the edge of town, secluded and almost fortress-like with its heavy security—mysterious and imposing.

As soon as the security staff spotted Citrine approaching, they all nodded respectfully.

"Welcome, Miss. Please, come in."

She gave a polite nod in return and headed inside.

With every step, Citrine felt her heart growing heavier.

She had no idea how she was going to face her grandfather.

If it hadn't been for him—if he hadn't rescued her in America and treated her like his own granddaughter—she wouldn't be the Citrine she was today.

In her previous life, she'd given everything to the Iverson family, barely sparing a thought for her grandfather. In the end, he'd been left disgraced, all because of her.

He'd always been so proud. The shame must have crushed him.

Citrine stood in front of the grand old house, wringing her hands so tightly her knuckles whitened, suddenly tempted to turn back.

But before she could retreat, the front door swung open.

The butler spotted her and hurried over, ushering her inside. "Miss Citrine, you're back! The master's been waiting in the sitting room since early this morning, just for you."

A wave of warmth spread through Citrine's chest as she made her way down the familiar hall.

As soon as she stepped into the living room, she saw him—a tall, upright figure sitting alone on the couch.

At the sight of her, he visibly stiffened.

Her grandfather's face was stern, and he let out a huff, turning his head away in feigned annoyance.

Citrine knew he was mad at her. She walked over and plopped down beside him, greeting him with a sweet, "Grandpa."

He ignored her. Citrine, unfazed, leaned in closer with a teasing grin. "Hey, grumpy old man?"

"Mind your manners," he grumbled, still keeping up the act.