The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress novel Chapter 786

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.”

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.

After a moment, Citrine straightened up.

“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.