The Rejected True Heiress (Liora) novel Chapter 61

Callum didn’t respond. Just pressed his lips together like he was holding in something that tasted bitter.

I leaned back, eyes drifting to the mirror across from us.

My hair curled perfectly today, soft waves pinned with gold clips like little crowns running down my part. My outfit hugged every curve just right, and my makeup? Flawless. Not a single eyelash dared step out of line.

So why wouldn’t he look at me?

Like I was the one trying too hard. Like I was the one being ridiculous for wanting to be seen.

“You know,” I said, forcing a laugh, “we used to have fun. You and me. Remember that date to the milkshake place outside of campus? Back when we first met? You pulled me out of that crowd when I tripped in those glitter heels?”

Callum glance at me, his brow furrowing. “Yeah. You were furious. Blamed the floor.”

“It was the floor,” I snapped, then softened. “But you carried me anyway.”

He nodded, but his eyes weren’t on me. They were on his phone again.

A tightness twisted in my chest, as sharp and glittering as the beads on my top.

I tilted my head, voice sugar-sweet but loaded. “Is it her you’re texting?”

He finally looked up, eyes narrowing. “No.”

“But you thought about it.” I smiled like it didn’t matter, like I was joking. “God, you really are bad at hiding it.”

“I didn’t come here to talk about her,” he said flatly.

“But you are thinking about her.” I leaned in, elbow on the armrest, my lip gloss catching the light. “Even now, when I’m sitting right here, in front of you, looking like this.”

Callum exhaled, slow and tired. “You always look nice, Bianca.”

Nice? Again?

I could’ve slapped him.

“Wow,” I said, voice going sharp. “There’s a compliment I can get stitched on a pillow.”

His brows lifted, and for a second, just a breath, I held his gaze. Not the girl playing perfect. Just me.

“That’s… a choice,” he said.

I smirked. “But did it get your attention?”

He didn't answer. He didn't need to. I pocketed it. A win was a win.

I was enough. I had to be. If blackmail, designer gowns, and curated charm couldn’t keep him, then what was left?

I met my reflection again, this time holding my head higher.

She was fearless. Untouchable. The kind of girl who marries the male lead.

And the popular girl, the Female Alpha, always wins at Homecoming.

Even if she has to burn a few bridges to do it.