The Real Heiress Rules the World (Sloane Rivers) novel Chapter 496

**Chapter 496: The Wish at Midnight**

In the heart of the banquet hall, a magnificent five-tiered cake towered majestically, its layers adorned with delicate frosting and vibrant decorations that caught the light beautifully. Jeffrey, with a twinkle in his eye, took Sloane’s hand in his, guiding it as they made the ceremonial first cut together. The crowd erupted into a symphony of warm applause, their cheers echoing off the walls, filling the air with a palpable sense of joy.

“My dear granddaughter,” Jeffrey said, his voice rich with affection, “now is the time for you to make a wish.”

Sloane glanced around at the familiar faces of her family, their smiles radiating warmth and support. Her gaze then settled on Lucas, who stood unwaveringly beside her, a steady presence amidst the excitement. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes, her heart racing as she whispered a silent wish: *May this moment last forever.*

When she finally opened her eyes, she found Lucas already watching her intently, as if he could somehow decipher the unspoken words swirling in her mind. He took her hand gently, leaning in closer, his voice a soft murmur that sent a thrill through her. “I promise, I’ll spend my whole life making your wish come true.”

Beside them, Shawn feigned a dramatic shudder, rolling his eyes with exaggerated flair. “Ugh, that’s way too sweet!” he groaned, his playful tone breaking the tender moment and sending laughter rippling through the room.

The celebration stretched late into the night, filled with laughter, stories, and the clinking of glasses. As the final guest bid farewell, Sloane found herself leaning against Lucas’s shoulder, fatigue enveloping her like a warm blanket.

“Should I carry you to your room?” Lucas asked, his voice barely above a whisper, laced with concern.

“No!” came the simultaneous response from Jeffrey, Kaizen, and Shawn, their voices ringing out in unison, causing Lucas to pause in confusion.

“……” Lucas could only blink, taken aback by their collective disapproval.

In the end, it was Jeffrey who escorted Sloane to her bedroom, his protective instincts flaring as he shot Lucas a warning glare over his shoulder before departing.

Later that night, Lucas found himself standing on the balcony, gazing toward Sloane’s room, his heart full. Just then, his phone buzzed to life with a message from her.

“The balcony door isn’t locked.”

A smile crept across his lips, warmth flooding his chest. He was about to type a response when he caught sight of Jeffrey, Kaizen, and Shawn on the opposite balcony, their eyes fixed on him with a mix of curiosity and caution.

Another message chimed in, breaking the silence.

Kaizen wiped the sweat from his brow, trying to regain composure. “Sloane, why are you up so early?”

Her eyes narrowed, a frown forming on her lips. “My room is right above the gym! Your fighting woke me up!” She stepped closer to Lucas, her expression softening as she noticed the bruise at the corner of his mouth. “Does it hurt?”

Before Lucas could respond, Jeffrey appeared, leaning on his cane, his presence commanding attention. “Ahem. It’s good for men to have energy, but,” he squinted at Lucas, his tone serious. “My granddaughter doesn’t like violent people.”

“Grandpa!” Sloane exclaimed, stomping her foot in frustration. “It was Uncle who—”

“Alright, alright,” Jeffrey interjected, cutting her off. “We have an important schedule today. The whole family will go pay respects to your grandmother.”

The air shifted, the gravity of the moment settling over them like a heavy blanket.

Sloane’s voice dropped to a whisper, her eyes wide with hope. “Can I go too?”