The Real Heiress Rules the World (Sloane Rivers) novel Chapter 505

**Chapter 505: The Starry Proposal**

Sloane’s eyes caught a glimpse of something unusual: a corner of a folded paper peeking out from beneath Tony’s shirt. Curiosity piqued, she called out, “Dad, there’s something in your shirt…”

In an unexpected twist, Tony clutched his stomach as if struck by a sudden wave of pain. “Ouch! My stomach just… it hurts! I need to go!” His voice was a mix of panic and urgency as he bolted from the room, leaving Sloane momentarily stunned.

Without missing a beat, Shawn sprang into action, his protective instincts kicking in. “I’ll go check on him!” he declared, darting after Tony, his footsteps echoing down the hallway.

In the blink of an eye, the study was left in a hush, with only Sloane and Lucas remaining. She planted her hands firmly on her hips, feigning indignation. “Alright, spill it. What are you all plotting behind my back?”

Sloane was determined to uncover the truth, but before she could press further, Lucas leaned in and captured her lips with a kiss, silencing her protests. A blush crept across her cheeks as she pushed him away, her expression a mix of annoyance and amusement. “So secretive… I can’t deal with this! I’m leaving!” She turned on her heel, feigning frustration as she walked out.

The moment she exited, the Oliver family, who had been lurking just beyond the door, poured back into the study like a wave.

“That was way too close!” Shawn exclaimed, his hand thumping against his chest as if to calm his racing heart. “We almost got caught red-handed!”

Beth, wiping the sheen of sweat from her brow, nodded in agreement. “Next time, we really need to find a more discreet spot for our planning…” Her voice trailed off, a hint of anxiety lacing her words.

Sloane couldn’t help but notice the strange behavior of her family lately. Beth had taken to sneaking onto the balcony to answer her phone, Lucas seemed to vanish for hours at a time, and even Shawn was acting suspiciously.

“Mom, are you guys hiding something from me?” Sloane probed, her tone heavy with suspicion.

Beth’s hand shook slightly, and she nearly toppled her teacup in her fluster. “Of course not! I’m just… preparing for your birthday banquet!” Her voice was a touch too high, a clear indication of her nerves.

Sloane’s mind began to piece together the puzzle. They were likely organizing a surprise birthday celebration for her. With that thought, she decided to play along, pretending to be oblivious to their secrets.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the clouds in hues of rose and gold, Shawn placed a mysterious blindfold over Sloane’s eyes. “Trust me, I’m taking you somewhere special,” he said, his voice brimming with excitement.

At that moment, Jeffrey wheeled out a magnificent star-themed cake, adorned with 22 star-shaped candles flickering in the dim light. “Child, make a wish,” he encouraged, a smile spreading across his face.

With her heart racing, Sloane closed her eyes tightly, and as she did, the entire floor of the observatory lit up, revealing a long, heartfelt love letter penned by Lucas. At the center, encased in a glass display, lay a stunning blue diamond ring—a design strikingly similar to her mother’s wedding ring.

“Will you marry me?” Lucas asked, taking her hand gently in his. “Let me become your family, just as you became my light.”

Tears of joy filled Beth and Tony’s eyes as they embraced each other, overwhelmed by emotion. Shawn stood off to the side, capturing every moment with his camera, his excitement palpable. Sloane’s tears fell onto the ring, refracting the brilliant light in a cascade of colors.

“I do,” she whispered, her voice barely above a breath.

Beneath the vast expanse of stars, Lucas slowly slid the ring onto her finger, sealing their promise. The drones soared into the air once more, this time forming the word “Forever,” a testament to their unbreakable bond.