The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress novel Chapter 216

Weston was handling the exact same situation, yet his approach toward Citrine was completely different.

He was blatantly playing favorites.

Regina glared at Citrine, her eyes sharp as knives, as if she could cut her down with just a look.

But then she remembered the gift and performance she’d prepared for Elbert today, and her confidence quickly returned.

Tonight, she was determined to steal the show and outshine Citrine Carmichael in front of everyone.

Halfway through the party, Regina strode forward and presented her gift—a delicate watercolor painting. The moment Elbert laid eyes on it, he was clearly taken with it, showering her with praise.

A moment later, Elbert’s gaze caught on the artist’s signature in the corner of the painting. He brightened, staring at Regina in surprise. “Is this an original by Master Hancock?”

Regina nodded, feigning modesty. “We’re friends, actually. This was a gift from him.”

At her words, Elbert and the other guests all turned to look at Regina, some full of envy at her connection with Master Hancock, others quietly impressed that she’d earned the artist’s favor.

In an instant, Regina became the center of attention.

Citrine glanced at the painting in Elbert’s hands, the corners of her lips hinting at a wry, almost mocking smile.

Elbert, still thrilled, turned to Regina. “This is so thoughtful of you. I really do love it.”

After Regina confirmed the gift’s authenticity, Elbert’s face lit up with genuine delight.

“As long as you like it,” Regina replied, her tone demure but her heart swelling with pride.

With that, she turned her gaze to Citrine, her eyes glinting with calculation. “Citrine, I wonder what you’ve prepared for Mr. Elbert’s birthday?”

All eyes shifted to Citrine.

Citrine hesitated, unsure whether to give her gift at all, and fell silent for a moment. Noticing this, Regina’s eyes darted to the small, black lacquer box in Citrine’s hands, a flicker of scorn passing over her face.

Such a shabby little thing—hardly worthy of the occasion.