The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress (Citrine) novel Chapter 536

Citrine finished speaking and even gave herself a small round of applause.

As her words faded, the crowd’s gaze shifted subtly to Justin. No one spoke, but the atmosphere changed.

In these elite circles, nothing was more despised than a man who clawed his way up by marrying into money. Yet Justin was a different story. He was infamous for being exactly that—a social climber—but he’d always had a ruthless drive and a certain cunning that set him apart. Over the years, he’d built The Dixon Group into a formidable name, earning a grudging respect from the very people who once whispered behind his back.

Back in the day, people used to call him a gold-digger in private, but as he made The Dixon Group bigger and more successful, those criticisms faded. If Citrine hadn’t called him out so publicly tonight, most people here would have conveniently forgotten his less-than-glorious beginnings.

"You—you’re making things up!" Justin’s face turned red with anger. He hadn't expected Citrine to air his dirty laundry in front of everyone.

"You know very well I’m not," Citrine shot him a sharp look, then turned away, done with the conversation.

Quentin, growing impatient, barked at Citrine, "Citrine Carmichael, you’re the one on trial here—stop trying to change the subject."

Justin immediately jumped in, "That’s right. Don’t think you can use me as a diversion."

Quentin turned to the hostess, his voice taking on a cold edge. "Mamie, Citrine Carmichael has always been wild and immoral, even as a child. I think you should throw her out. Someone like her doesn’t belong at a charity gala."

He narrowed his eyes, his tone laced with threat. "Mamie, if I remember right, your husband’s new project is with The Aldridge Group, isn’t it?"

Mamie clenched her fists, her composure slipping. Her family was one of the most respected in Crestwood; she’d never been threatened like this before.

"So you’re threatening me?" she shot back.

Quentin shrugged, careless. "And what if I am? Or do you actually want to defend Citrine Carmichael?"