The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

After the operation ended, Citrine's cover was completely blown. The Archer family patriarch was furious, but there was nothing he could do about her now.

To make matters worse, the truth about Mirage Cay was exposed. The government abandoned the Archer family, and their reputation among the people of Magnolia plummeted overnight.

Vester had been planning this for a long time. Seizing the opportunity, he released damning evidence he'd collected-proof of The Archer Group's faulty products and falsified financial records.

At the same time, Vester's own company emerged from the shadows, and with the aura of a righteous whistleblower turning against his own family for the greater good, he quickly built up his firm's name and prestige.

In a single day, Vester went from the illegitimate son everyone in the Archer family looked down on, to the man in charge so much so that even his father now had to watch his tone around him.

That evening, Vester hosted a lavish dinner party.

Citrine knew exactly what he was up to: he wanted to use this chance to absorb all the Archer family's powerful former contacts and wring every last drop of benefit out of them. Still, she hadn't expected him to send invitations to her and Sebastian as well.

Vester had helped them, so after a quick discussion, Citrine and Sebastian decided they'd attend.

By the time they arrived, Vester's wheelchair was surrounded by three deep circles of guests, all clamoring for his attention. He was the undisputed star of the night.

No one would ever again dare call him a cripple or a bastard.

Vester's own company was now every bit as powerful as the old Archer Group had been. With the Archers' downfall, everyone looking for a new patron naturally turned to him.

He accepted their flattery with a cool composure, discreetly extending offers to the companies he believed had the greatest potential.

Darius Archer, red-faced with rage, could only force a smile and play along. The once-glorious siblings were now forced to swallow their pride and keep their heads down.

Vester had finally achieved everything he'd wanted, but somehow, he didn't seem especially happy.noveldrama

His gaze lingered on the entrance, as if he were waiting for someone in particular.

The butler noticed with a knowing smile. "Are you expecting Ms. Carmichael, sir?"

Vester's eyes dimmed a little, and he replied, a hint of disappointment in his voice, "It's so late. I suppose she's not coming."

Sensing his mood, the butler wisely said nothing further.

Citrine and Sebastian had run into some trouble on the way, so they arrived later than expected. As soon as they presented their invitation at the door, they were ushered inside.

Once in the room, Citrine went straight to Vester to apologize. "Sorry we're late, we had a bit of trouble on the road."

Vester smiled. "No need to apologize, Ms. Carmichael. I'm honored you're here at all."

He continued, "I never imagined you were the head of Northriver Vermillion Vanguard. I must admit, I didn't treat you with the respect you deserved before."

In Magnolia, the undefeated leader of Northriver was something of a legend-an idol in the eyes of most.

Vester had always admired her.

"Mr. Vester, you've done a lot to help us. I'm grateful," Citrine replied, every bit as polite and composed as always, despite his warmth.

Then she remembered something "Oh, and about our partnership-Kve already informed the head of our Magnolia branch. She'll be in touch with your office soon."

"You agreed to the collaboration?" Vester's surprise was genuine.

Citrine nodded. "You're a man of integrity, Mr. Vester. I trust you, and I'm happy to work with someone like you."

For once, she meant every word—not just flattery, but the honest truth.

Vester's smile grew, the tips of his ears turning faintly red. It was the first time anyone had ever praised him so sincerely, and for a moment, he almost looked bashful.