Ready to Rule: The Real Heiress Strikes Back novel Chapter 606

Luke barely made it a few steps before his face lost all color. He was breathing hard, clutching his stomach like every breath hurt. Lydia heard the commotion, spun around, and caught him before he could collapse. Her voice was cool as ever. “Why are you running? You need to rest.”

He’d pushed himself too hard, and now his body was letting him know it. Lydia didn’t show an ounce of sympathy. She helped him back onto the bed, her expression unreadable. “Don’t start moving around until you’re better,” she told him, her tone flat.

Luke stayed silent, just watching her. The usual wildness in his eyes had faded, replaced by something quieter, almost lost.

He waited until Lydia turned to go before he finally spoke, voice rough and low. “Lydia.”

She stopped, glanced back with a small smile. “Didn’t they tell you? I’m not your sister anymore.”

Luke’s gaze dropped, and for a second he looked even weaker. After a long pause, he finally said, “I’m not good enough to be your brother anyway.”

Lydia raised an eyebrow, considered him for a moment. “I heard they’re throwing you a birthday party in three days. But you’re not well enough for that. Whether you go or not, it’s your choice.” She turned and walked out without another word.

Only after she was gone did Luke whisper the words he’d been hesitating to say all along. “Thank you.”

Later that night, Jenson and Milana showed up at the hospital, practically glowing with excitement. The shares had sold quickly, and even if the price was low, at least they finally had the money they needed.

“Luke, sweetheart, your sixteenth birthday is coming up in three days. I’m so happy,” Milana gushed, sitting by his side and offering him a bowl of homemade soup. Her eyes were full of love.

Luke barely reacted. He just stared at the blanket, voice soft. “Why hasn’t Grandma come to see me?”

He’d always respected his grandmother. He’d heard she was the one paying for his medical bills.

Milana froze, blinking rapidly before forcing a smile. “You know your grandma can’t get around easily. How could she make it all the way here?”

Luke frowned, not hiding his disapproval. “Mom, why are you so upset? She just came to check on me. It wasn’t a big deal.”

Milana realized she’d gone overboard and let out a long sigh. “Luke, you’re my precious boy. Lydia is nothing but trouble. You have to tell me, did she say anything weird to you?”

Luke shot back, “Is something weird happening at home?”

Milana was caught off guard.

Jenson quickly stepped in. “Everything’s fine at home. Nothing’s wrong. Your mom just worries and thought Lydia said something to you.”

Luke fell silent for a moment, then finally asked, “Why did you make her leave this family?”