The True Heiress Reborn And Slays (Alicia Delaney) novel Chapter 483

Chapter 483 A Fabricated Forced Marriage

Finished

Elsie’s words perfectly soothed Melissa’s frustration. She relaxed her expression and pressed on with a probing tone. “Since there no official marriage, did you chase her to Nexopolis hoping to reconcile? Are you aware of her current relationship with Sebastian of the Torres family?”

She trailed off mid–sentence as she regarded Lucas with a searching, uncertain gaze.

A wry smile crossed Lucas‘ face before his gaze hardened with unwavering conviction. “I know. But I refuse to believe Riley’s feelings changed so quickly. She loved me deeply once. This rift between us is only because she’s still angry.”

Melissa lifted her coffee cup to hide the cunning glint in her eyes, then let out a heavy, sorrowful sigh. “Mr. Ashford, this is a private family matter I shouldn’t share with an outsider. But I can see how truly devoted you are to Riley, and I hate to watch two people who love each other be torn apart.”

Eager for confirmation of his delusions, Lucas leaned forward slightly. “Please tell me the truth, Mrs. Harper. Is Riley with Sebastian against her will?”

Putting on a helpless, mournful look, Melissa nodded gravely. “The alliance between Riley and Sebastian was entirely my husband’s decision. The Harper and Torres families have an old engagement agreement. My husband is an incredibly stubborn, profit–driven man.”

She dabbed at dry eyes with a handkerchief, her voice turning hoarse with feigned sorrow. “He only allowed Riley to return to Nexopolis and take a senior position at Harper Group on the condition that she accept the Torres marriage. Riley is strong–willed, but she had no choice but to compromise to gain a foothold here and reclaim what belongs to her.”

“What about Sebastian?” Lucas frowned deeply. “Is he also being forced into this marriage?”

“Him?” Melissa let out a cold scoff. “Men of his status never get to choose their own marriages. He’s only pursuing this relationship to secure full control of the Torres family’s assets from the elders. To them, this is nothing more than a transaction of resources and power.”

She fixed an earnest gaze on Lucas, her tone growing more persuasive. “Our families are well–matched, and I shouldn’t interfere. But as her mother, I know my daughter best. Riley is miserable, forcing smiles for Sebastian every day. Watching her trapped in this loveless, transactional relationship breaks my heart. I’ve tried to help her break free, but my husband is unyielding. I’m powerless on iny own… until you

came.”

Minor inconsistencies between Melissa’s story and his previous findings slipped past Lucas‘ notice. The sight of Riley’s teary, seemingly benevolent birth mother erased all his doubts, replaced by biased certainty.

I’ve always known glamorous aristocratic families hide shady power and money deals behind their polished exteriors

A woman as loyal and devoted as Riley could never fall for another man in just a few months. The only explanation is that the Harpers are holding her against her will.

A sharp ache pierced Lucas‘ chest, and overwhelming protectiveness surged through him.

His heart ached for Riley, forced to navigate two men for the sake of survival.

1/2

:15 pm PPTM

Chapter 483 A Fabricated Forced Marriage

Finished

After a long moment of quiet contemplation, he lifted his head with determined eyes. “Mrs. Harper, your willingness to tell me the truth proves you only want Riley’s happiness. Please tell me what I need to do to save her from this predicament.”

Joy flashed bright in Melissa’s eyes. Lucas was far easier to manipulate than she’d expected, a perfect pawn falling right into her trap.

‘You know the grand homecoming banquet the Harper family is hosting soon? Every influential figure in Nexopolis will attend. My husband plans to officially announce Riley’s identity and confirm her engagement to Sebastian at the event, locking their marriage in place for good.”

Lucas‘ breath hitched, his expression turning grave.

Melissa’s tone carried strong manipulative undertones. “But we can go public with your long history with Riley ahead of their official announcement. We’ll explain that you shared a life in Havenbrook and were nearly married, and everyone present will see the truth.

“To save the Harper family’s reputation and avoid a devastating social scandal, my husband will have no choice but to accept your relationship on the spot.

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