The Double (or more?) Life of the Fake Heiress novel Chapter 3

"Since you're here, there's something I want to make clear today, and I hope you can take care of it," Mandy declared with a return to her aristocratic demeanor. Though she spoke of hope, the undercurrent of her words suggested a command rather than a request.

Mirabella chuckled, and before she could respond, her grandmother, Catherine – who had raised her from childhood – made her presence known. Catherine gently patted Mandy's arm, signaling her to tone it down before turning her softened gaze to Mirabella. "Mira, you're back. How did the competition go?"-

With a nonchalant hum, Mirabella replied, "Not too bad, I guess."

"Did you win?" asked Catherine, the excitement clear in her voice.

"Yeah, first place," Mirabella responded casually, without a hint of pride in her eyes, as if clinching the top spot was a walk in the park for her.

Upon hearing this, Catherine was so delighted that she wiped away a tear. "Good girl."

Mandy frowned, not understanding, and questioned Catherine, "First place in what competition?"

Catherine turned to her with a proud smile and began, "You might not know, but Mira is not only a stellar student but also..."