The Real Heiress Rules the World (Sloane Rivers) novel Chapter 493

**Bonfire 493**

**The Princess of the Oliver Family**

Lucas lingered at the fringes of the lively gathering, a quiet observer amidst the thrumming heart of the grand hall. Laughter cascaded around him, bright and infectious, weaving a tapestry of joy that filled the air. His gaze, however, was drawn irresistibly to Sloane, who was radiant, her smile illuminating the room like a beacon. A soft smile crept onto his lips as he watched her interact with the guests, her laughter blending seamlessly with theirs.

Suddenly, Shawn nudged him playfully with his elbow, a teasing smirk dancing on his face. “What’s this? Are you feeling a twinge of jealousy?” he quipped, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

Lucas shook his head, though his expression softened as he continued to watch Sloane. “Not in the slightest. I’m just… genuinely happy for her. She finally has a real family.” The sincerity in his voice was palpable, reflecting his deep-seated affection for her.

As the evening wore on, Lucas found himself “politely” escorted to the guest quarters, while Sloane was whisked away to the opulent suite in the main villa, a space that seemed to shimmer with luxury. The contrast between their accommodations felt stark, yet Lucas couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment knowing Sloane was finally receiving the love and care she deserved.

Later that night, as the mansion settled into a hush and the world outside faded into silence, Sloane’s phone buzzed to life, breaking the stillness. She glanced at the screen and saw a message from Lucas that made her heart skip a beat:

“Your guards caught me sneaking through the garden. Princess, please come save your poor knight.”

A smile tugged at her lips as she tiptoed to the balcony, peering into the moonlit garden. There he was, Lucas, standing comically in the midst of the rose bushes, a leaf absurdly lodged in his tousled hair. It was a sight that made her stifle a laugh, her heart swelling with affection for him.

Without a second thought, she draped a shawl around her shoulders and descended the staircase, determined to rescue him from his predicament. But as she reached the bottom step, her heart sank. Jeffrey, Kaizen, and Shawn were sprawled on the living room sofas like three watchful sentinels, their gazes fixed intently on her.

“Where do you think you’re off to at this hour, my precious granddaughter?” Jeffrey inquired, his tone deceptively mild, yet laced with authority.

“Where to this late, cousin?” Shawn chimed in, the hint of a grin barely concealed on his face.

“Sloane, it’s quite chilly outside,” Kaizen added, arms crossed over his chest. “There’s really no need to go wandering about.”

Sloane felt a wave of frustration wash over her. Great. Lucas was destined to become mosquito food tonight, thanks to this impromptu family intervention.

The following morning, news of the Oliver family’s extravagant banquet spread like wildfire through the elite circles of the city. Whispers and murmurs filled the air, each more sensational than the last.

“Did you hear? The Olivers have suddenly acquired a daughter!” one socialite exclaimed, her eyes wide with intrigue.

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