The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress novel Chapter 387

By now, every team had entered battle mode. Players huddled together, discussing possible tactics their opponents might use and brainstorming ways to counter them.

The tension in the room was palpable, as if everyone was about to sit for a life-or-death exam.

All except for Citrine’s team, whose entire vibe stood out like a sore thumb.

While the other teams were on edge, Citrine lounged comfortably in a plush chair, idly snacking. In front of her was a spread of snacks and fruit—everything Travis had bought—chips, chocolate, berries, grapes, apple slices; you name it, the table had it.

Travis sat beside her, methodically peeling an orange and a grapefruit, making sure every bit of pith was gone. Once he’d finished, he pulled out a small cutting board and a paring knife, slicing the fruit into perfect segments and arranging them neatly on a plate. He set it in front of Citrine and, with a grin, offered her a piece on the tip of a toothpick. “Open up, Citrine.”

Citrine opened her mouth without a second thought and took the fruit, chewing contentedly.

And it wasn’t just Travis doting on her. Sylvan, Carney, and Springer were all busy as well—one kneading Citrine’s shoulders, another fussing over her like a worried mother, and the last clowning around in front of her with exaggerated antics, doing whatever he could to make her laugh.

Compared to the tense atmosphere elsewhere, Citrine’s squad looked like they were at a casual Sunday picnic. The contrast couldn’t have been starker.

Meanwhile, Curry, watching from a short distance away, took in the entire scene.

He nudged Wade, who was glued to his phone, scrolling through analysis of CrimsonFirst’s tactics. “Look at that girl,” Curry whispered.

Wade glanced up, thinking Curry was checking someone out. He looked over at the girl, gave her a once-over, and—though she was turned to the side—offered a verdict. “That profile is top-tier. Bet she’s even prettier face-on. Not bad, man. Good taste.”

Curry rolled his eyes and clarified, “No, I mean, look at how relaxed that team is. And that girl—her teammates are doting on her like she’s royalty.”

Wade looked again. Sure enough, the girl was being hand-fed by her teammate while three others hovered around her, each trying to outdo the others in service and entertainment.

To Wade, it looked exactly like the setup for some over-the-top romance drama—four guys, one girl, all vying for her attention. He didn’t expect to see it play out in real life.