The True Heiress Reborn And Slays (Alicia Delaney) novel Chapter 287

Chapter 287 Weight of Choice

25

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Caleb remarked, his tone dripping with disdain as he glanced at Lucas, “Even if she gets entangled in that financial crime case, the worst she’d face is a criminal record and exile from the business world.

“Sophia’s in the entertainment industry-it’s not her only path. She could always settle for a quiet life at home. Besides, a woman like her, once she’s taken a fall, would only cling to us with greater loyalty.”

His words were sharp, each one striking a nerve.

Lucas fell silent, any argument stuck in his throat. Deep down, resistance still simmered, yet a seed of doubt had been planted.

He knew Caleb’s intentions were for the good of the Ashford family, and for his own sake-but this “good” came at Sophia’s expense.

“Grandpa, I… I need to think it over,” he finally managed to say, the words feeling like gravel in his mouth. Almost fleeing, he turned and left Caleb’s study.

The moment Lucas stepped out and rounded the corner into the living room, however, the sight before him halted him in his tracks.

There on the living room rug sat Sophia, gently guiding young Jeremy through a drawing. The boy looked up at his mother, asking a question, and a soft, tender smile graced Sophia’s lips, her eyes filled with unmistakable affection.

The scene was a portrait of domestic warmth, striking Lucas directly in his most vulnerable spot.

She appeared so gentle, so entirely unaware of the storm gathering around her.

Officially, Lucas had always declared Riley to be his wife, the rightful Mrs. Ashford in the eyes of the world.

Yet in reality, it was Sophia who had stood by his side, who had borne his child.

He couldn’t help but feel a pang of reluctance.

Back in his bedroom, Lucas sank onto the edge of the bed, surrounded by darkness that mirrored the chaos in his mind.

Caleb’s cold, calculated proposal for the family’s benefit clashed violently with the memory of Sophia’s gentle smile.

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17:08 Wed, Jun 3

Chapter 287 Weight of Choice

25

+35 Free Coins

Torn and struggling, he couldn’t reach a decision, the internal conflict threatening to tear him

apart.

His gaze drifted absently to the nightstand, landing on a framed photo of Riley and himself.

In it, Riley wore a faint smile, but her eyes held a distinct aloofness.

Lucas’ breath caught.

Caleb’s words echoed in his mind once more.

A new, twisted thought began to form.

What if the contract is signed under Riley’s name? Let her shoulder the risks of this venture…

If things go south, wouldn’t she be the one rendered unemployable in the business world? Wouldn’t her celebrated talents and pride be utterly shattered?

Then perhaps she would have no choice but to stay by my side forever, dependent, unable to leave- unable to make me feel this unsettling loss of control as she does now.

A flicker of something warped kindled in Lucas’ eyes, which had been clouded with hesitation.

*****

17:08 Wed, Jun 3

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