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

Mirabella noticed someone glancing her way and responded with a friendly smile, casually strolling over to greet them. As she got closer, she said, "Morning," with an easy, natural vibe.

"Morning."

James was also dressed in workout gear, his sleeves rolled up, showing off his forearms, and a light sheen of sweat glistened on his forehead. His striking features had a certain disciplined allure, evidence of a recent workout.

"Morning," James replied, nodding towards the neighborhood with a playful eyebrow raise. "Care to join me?"

Mirabella nodded with a smile, falling into her usual jogging routine.

Awkward? Not a chance!

James glanced over at the girl ahead, a playful smirk tugging at his lips as he matched her pace. They jogged five laps around the neighborhood, switching to a brisk walk for the last lap, sharing a quiet, peaceful camaraderie.

After their run, James walked Mirabella home.

As she keyed in her door code, Mirabella broke the silence, turning to James, "Got something on your mind?"

Her cheeks were flushed from the run, her complexion glowing.

James raised an eyebrow, "Like what? The mystery racer who helped me out that night?" He paused, his voice dropping to a teasing whisper, "Or maybe... the world's top racer, Jade?"

Mirabella's smile wavered, "What nonsense are you spouting this early? World champ? Not me. I've barely had my license six months."

As long as she denied it, she was just a decoy.

James chuckled softly, "Underground racing doesn't need a license."

Ignoring him, Mirabella turned back to the door. "I better get going. College awaits."

She stepped inside, but James's voice caught her, "How about a race sometime?"

Mirabella hesitated, cheeks twitching.

James watched her for a moment, then said, "You owe me that much."

Surprised, Mirabella turned back, incredulous, "Petty much? I earned that twenty million fair and square!"

Revealing her identity? Maybe. Coughing up money? No way.noveldrama

With that, she shut the door with a firm click.

James sighed, rubbing his temple. "I wasn't asking for money."

From behind the door, Mirabella's voice softened, "Oh."

James lingered for a few seconds, then simply said, "Tonight. We race."

Although she didn't quite get his sudden need to race, as long as cash wasn't involved, she was game.

So, Mirabella nodded, "Alright, tonight."

"Yeah."

Something flickered in James's eyes, but Mirabella didn't notice as she disappeared inside.

Meanwhile, over at the hospital...

Romero had been recovering from a bone marrow transplant for a few days,

staying in isolation. Age and the toll of radiation had left his immune system wiped out, leading to infections and complications soon after surgery.

Austin hadn't caught a decent night's sleep in days.