The True Heiress Reborn And Slays (Alicia Delaney) novel Chapter 175

Chapter 175 A Calculated Invitation

“Alright,” Riley replied, her tone detached.

Lucas seemed taken aback by her chill response and quickly added, “I already emailed you the auction catalog. Take a look and me know if anything catches your eye. Just say the word, and I’ll place a bid for you.”

His effort to win her over was unmistakable.

Too bad the Riley of today wasn’t the kind of woman who’d be over the moon just because he showed her a little kindness.

“Got it. I’ll browse through it first,” she answered evenly.

After hanging up, Riley opened her email and skimmed the auction materials Lucas had sent.

The listed items were certainly high–value–typical estate jewelry, vintage watches, and contemporary art pieces you’d expect at an upscale auction. Still, nothing really stood out to her.

She saw right through what Lucas was doing.

Bringing her along wasn’t really about her, and it wasn’t about winning her back either. This was all for Aiden’s benefit–to show that she, as Mrs Ashford, was fully on board and engaged in the partnership. That way, Lucas could solidify his deal with Aiden.

A faint, cool smile touched Riley’s lips.

But if Lucas wanted to throw money around to keep up appearances, she certainly wasn’t going to stop him.

The following evening, after wrapping up at the office, Riley left the building with Lucas.

What struck her as odd was that Sophia–who usually clung to Lucas at events like these–didn’t make a sound all day. She stayed quietly in her office and showed no interest in joining them.

Lucas‘ car pulled smoothly out of the parking garage. Just as they were about to turn onto the main road, Sophia hurried over and tapped on the passenger window.

Lucas rolled it down. Sophia leaned in, wearing a polished, gracious smile, though her eyes flickered meaningfully toward Riley before she spoke. “Lucas, I just remembered Mom’s birthday is coming up. If you spot something nice at the auction, don’t forget to bid on it for her. It’d make a lovely gift.”

Lucas nodded right away. “Sure, I’ll keep an eye out. You have the catalog too–check with her about what she likes, then text me a

screenshot.”

“Will do. Drive safe” Sophia said as she straightened up, giving a little wave.

Their exchange played out like a well–rehearsed scene the devoted son and the thoughtful adopted daughter. They clearly thought nobody could see through it.

But Riley, sitting in the passenger seat, caught the subtext immediately.

Sophia wasn’t just reminding him to buy Anthea a gift. She was using it as a way to ask Lugas for something she wanted barse while hiding behind the perfectly respectable excuse of Anthed’s birthday.

The auction was being held in the grand ballroom of luxury downtown hoter

9:2

P

alculated Invitation

an understated but elegant white gown, walked into the venue on Lucas‘ arm.

urprise, Aiden hadn’t gone inside yet. Instead, he stood near one of the pillars at the entrance, almost as if he’d be ng for them.

When he spotted them, Aiden approached with a warm, sociable smile. “Mr. Ashford, Ms. Harper–there you are.”

“Apologies for the delay, Mr. Quinn. Traffic was heavier than expected,” Lucas replied courteously. He handed his keys to th and said, “Riley, why don’t you go ahead with M I’ll join you right after I park.”

Riley nodded. She watched Lucas wall about it.

Just as she looked back, Aid murmured.

Riley’s lashe

aze drift casually around the opulent lobby without being obvio

ing his voice to a confidential tone. “Sebastian isn’t here tonight,” he

After

she understood completely the true nature of Aiden and Sebastian’s relationship be

is now was a test–to see if she’d react with disappointment, or better yet, to catch some rned, something he could later twist into a story.

ey more composed.

en’s eyes with calm detachment, her tone even and deliberate. “I’m here with ends or not really doesn’t concern me.”

my

husband tonight.

fened for a fraction of a second. He clearly hadn’t expected his carefully set–up remark to be turned back on him

a light, unconvincing laugh and quickly adjusted his expression. “You’re absolutely right, Ms. Harper. That was thoughties

But he wasn’t ready to drop it just yet.

“I didn’t mean anything by it

“My cousin has n

might be flat

He

take an active interest in anyone, which under other circumstances.

a friendly heads–up.”