She Wore Many Masks, and Ruled Them All
Back in the banquet hall, a five-tiered cake tower stood proudly in the center. Jeffrey personally guided Sloane’s hand as they made the first cut together, and the crowd burst into warm applause. “My good granddaughter, make a wish,” Jeffrey said fondly. Sloane looked around at her gathered family, then turned to Lucas, who stood steadfastly by her side. She closed her eyes and silently whispered in her heart, May this moment last forever. When she opened her eyes, Lucas was already gazing at her as if he could read her thoughts. He gently took her hand and leaned in close, murmuring, “I’ll spend my whole life making your wish come true.” Shawn shuddered dramatically beside them. “Ugh, that’s way too sweet!” he groaned, sending the room into laughter. The celebration lasted late into the night. By the time the final guest departed, Sloane was dozing off against Lucas’s shoulder, exhausted.“Should I carry you to your room?” Lucas asked softly. “No!” Jeffrey, Kaizen, and Shawn barked in unison. Lucas: “……” In the end, Jeffrey escorted Sloane to her bedroom himself, not forgetting to shoot Lucas a warning glare before leaving. Late that night, Lucas stood on the balcony, looking toward Sloane’s room. His phone buzzed — a message from her. “The balcony door isn’t locked.” A small smile tugged at his lips. He was about to reply when he noticed Jeffrey, Kaizen, and Shawn standing on the opposite balcony, all three staring straight at him. Another message came in. “...But Grandpa and the others seem to have noticed.” Lucas couldn’t help but laugh helplessly and sighed before replying, “Good night, my princess. See you tomorrow.” On the opposite balcony, Jeffrey nodded in satisfaction. “At least the boy knows his place.” At five-thirty the next morning, Lucas arrived at the Oliver family gym right on time. Kaizen was already there, holding a pair of dumbbells. “You’re thirty seconds late,” Kaizen said coldly. “Add fifty push-ups.” Without protest, Lucas removed his suit jacket. “Uncle, I suggest we go straight to combat training.” He rolled up his sleeves, revealing firm muscles. “After all, protecting Sloane requires real skill.” Kaizen raised an eyebrow, surprised at his nerve. Soon, the two were sparring fiercely in the boxing ring until— “Stop it!” Sloane rushed in wearing her pajamas, her hair still tousled. “What are you two doing?” Both men immediately froze. Kaizen wiped his sweat. “Sloane, why are you up so early?” Sloane glared at them angrily. “My room is right above the gym! Your fighting woke me up!” She walked up to Lucas, concern softening her tone as she saw the bruise at the corner of his mouth. “Does it hurt?”Before Lucas could respond, Jeffrey entered, leaning on his cane. “Ahem. It’s good for young men to have energy, but…” He squinted at Lucas. “My granddaughter doesn’t like violent people.” “Grandpa!” Sloane stomped her foot. “It was Uncle who—” “Alright, alright.” Jeffrey cut her off. “We have an important schedule today. The whole family will go pay respects to your grandmother.” The air turned solemn. Sloane lowered her voice. “Can I go too?”
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