The Double or more Life of the Fake Heiress (Mirabella) novel Chapter 1809

Penelope stood there, watching the car disappear into the distance, rooted to the spot for what felt like an eternity. People slowly trickled out, casting sideways glances at her, each with a mix of curiosity and something else in their eyes.

Everyone knew Penelope was a powerhouse, yet she had lost to Miss Mira, a newcomer making her debut. It was the kind of upset that made folks start doubting Penelope's once-unquestioned skills.

It was like when the shine wears off a polished gem; no matter how dazzling it was before, without that sheen, it seemed less impressive. Everyone had their own thoughts, but no one wanted to stir the pot. They gave her a wide berth, avoiding her as if she had the plague.

Penelope’s lips curled slightly in a dismissive smile, unfazed by the odd stares. As she made her way to the parking lot, her phone buzzed in her pocket.

It was her mom, Melissa, calling for what must have been the fifth time.

Penelope let it go to voicemail, opting instead to jump into her sports car and head to the racetrack.

Meanwhile, Melissa was anxiously waiting for news on how the day's evaluation went. With her daughter ignoring her calls, she frowned and paced the living room. She finally dug out Jaime's number and dialed him up.

He picked up right away.

Melissa got straight to the point, asking about the day’s events.

“Penelope was fantastic, but we all underestimated Keir's niece,” Jaime said, his voice heavy with the weight of the unexpected.

Melissa's eyes widened in disbelief. “You’re saying Penelope lost today?”

Jaime let out a long, weary sigh.

“How could this be... Mr. Davis, you've got to be joking, right? How could Penelope lose?”

Melissa felt a bit more at ease after hearing Jaime’s reassurances. “No matter what, Penelope was Keir’s protégé. Even if she doesn’t end up as the heir, it shouldn’t just go to some outsider who popped up out of nowhere.”

Jaime pressed his lips together, offering a few comforting words before ending the call.

The idea of a woman leading the family was laughable to him.

**Meanwhile, Mirabella had just met up with James in the car.

“Any word from Curtis?” Mirabella asked.

James pulled over to the side of the road, leaving the engine off. “I've been in touch, but he’s new at the primary base. It'll take a bit for any news to trickle out.”