In the Lap of Luxury novel (Grace and Benjamin) novel Chapter 546

Grace glanced over Willow's statement, which closely aligned with their plan.

In it, Willow had taken all the responsibility upon herself and revealed that Matthew had been unaware of the situation. But upon learning the truth, he had fulfilled his paternal duties.

To express her regret, she chose to retire indefinitely.

Esme had managed to take down Willow in less than two hours.

Grace breathed a sigh of relief.

At that moment, Esme called, "I've taken the child."

"Congratulations, Mrs. Thorne. You've gotten what you wanted."

"I've done what you asked. With my influence, Willow will never show her face in society again. You can rest easy."

Grace smiled, looking out over the cityscape from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

"How did you persuade Willow?"

Esme sounded almost bored as she explained, "A mother's greatest weakness is her child. I told her that if Matthew fell from grace, her child would have no future.

"Faced with two ends, she naturally knew what to do. Of course, I gave her a sum of money enough for a lifetime, on the condition she never sees the child again."

"A win-win situation. Mr. Thorne would be very grateful to you."

Grace paused and added, "I trust you will be compassionate and won't be too harsh on the child."

Esme chuckled. "What do you take me for? Ms. Lewis, it might seem like I helped you, but really, you helped me. If you ever need anything in the future, just ask."

Grace agreed and hung up.

Puzzled, Ashley asked, "Ms. Lewis, why would Mrs. Thorne say that?"

"Now that she has the child, she's got a hold on Matthew for life. No matter how powerful he becomes, Esme holds the strings. Doesn't she owe me some thanks?"

Ashley nodded in understanding and answered, "Indeed."

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