The Real Heiress Rules the World (Sloane Rivers) novel Chapter 504

**Chapter 504: The Secret Plot**

Beth gently extended her hand, revealing yet another velvet box, its rich fabric shimmering softly under the light. “This is a little something from me…” she said, her voice laced with warmth and affection. As Sloane opened the box, her breath caught at the sight of the stunning brooch nestled inside. It was not just any piece of jewelry; it was a beautiful creation, inlaid with a tiny photograph that captured the entire family in a moment of pure joy. “From now on, no matter where life takes you, we’ll always be right there with you,” Beth added, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Overwhelmed by the gesture, Sloane could no longer contain her emotions. She threw herself into her parents’ embrace, her heart swelling with gratitude and love. Jeffrey, standing slightly to the side, hastily wiped his eyes, trying to maintain his composure. “Alright, alright, let’s not get too mushy here. It’s time to cut the cake!” he declared, attempting to lighten the mood.

A magnificent five-tier cake was wheeled into the room, adorned with the words “Welcome Home” elegantly scripted across the top. Beth clasped Sloane’s hand tightly as they approached the cake together, ready to slice through the layers of sweetness. “From this day forward, I promise to be here to celebrate every birthday with you,” she said, her voice filled with sincerity.

As Sloane stood there, enveloped in her family’s unwavering love, she felt as if happiness were a constant companion, filling her days with light. Yet, a shadow of concern had begun to creep into her heart. Lately, she had noticed Lucas’s peculiar behavior—he was constantly leaving early and returning home late. There were days when she wouldn’t even catch a glimpse of him.

“Where’s Lucas?” she inquired, her brow furrowing in confusion.

“He went out early this morning and hasn’t returned yet,” her mother replied, a hint of worry creeping into her tone.

Sloane’s frown deepened. “Out again?” she echoed, a sense of unease settling in the pit of her stomach.

**The Oliver Family Study**

Meanwhile, in the Oliver family study, Lucas sat around a table cluttered with proposals for wedding planning. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and a touch of secrecy. Jeffrey, peering through his reading glasses, scrutinized the timeline with a critical eye. “This part isn’t romantic enough…” he muttered, shaking his head slightly.

Shawn, ever the enthusiastic one, jumped in with a bright idea. “What if he proposes on a yacht? Just like my uncle did!” His eyes sparkled with the thrill of the suggestion.

Beth, however, shook her head, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. “That’s too cliché. Sloane adores the starry sky. What about at an observatory?” she proposed, her voice filled with hope.

Suddenly, Tony slammed his hand on the table, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “We could create a real-life fairy tale castle…” he suggested, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

But just as the excitement reached a fever pitch, a sudden knock on the study door sent a jolt of panic through the group.

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