Ready to Rule: The Real Heiress Strikes Back novel Chapter 496

Lucinda had been smiling just a second ago, but now her face froze. She stared at Blake, completely confused. “Blake, Grace has watched me grow up. You know how much she means to me. Why would you even think about replacing her?”

For Lucinda, Grace wasn’t just a housekeeper. She was like family, always there, caring and looking out for her. Sometimes, it felt like Grace loved her even more than her own parents did. How could she ever let go of someone who had treated her so well?

Blake frowned. “She has too much influence over you.”

He’d noticed it for a while. Lucinda’s recent changes seemed tied to Grace. Whenever Lucinda made mistakes, Grace didn’t stop her or point them out. Instead, she encouraged her, always stirring things up. With Grace around, it was only a matter of time before trouble found them.

“She’s always been good to me!” Lucinda blurted out.

Under Blake’s meaningful stare, Lucinda started to feel uneasy. “Is this about how I’ve been acting lately? Do you think Grace is behind it? Is that why you want her gone?”

“Isn’t she?” Blake shot back.

“No! She’s cared for me all these years, looked after me in every way. I’m so grateful to her. If you really want to fire her, you might as well throw me out of the Norwood family too!”

Lucinda’s words hung in the air. If Blake insisted on getting rid of Grace now, it would feel just like asking Lucinda to leave the family herself.

Blake sighed. “She can stay, but from now on, you need to check in with yourself before you do anything. Ask yourself if it’s right. Don’t let her talk you into things or twist your thoughts.”

Lucinda let out a huge sigh of relief and nodded. “Don’t worry, Blake. I promise I’ll get along with my sister.”

Blake’s tone softened. “Lucinda, I said all this because I want you to understand. You’re still part of this family. Lydia is family, too. Stop thinking of her as your rival.”

Lucinda went quiet for a moment, then nodded, serious and sincere. “I understand, Blake.”

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