Chapter 1421

Grace’s last sentence was clearly directed at Aurora.

Tessa stood silently beside her, watching every flicker of her mother’s changing expression, her hands slowly curling into fists.

She should’ve expected this; Grace’s favoritism was nothing new. She’d seen this act too many times before. “You’re right, Mom,” Tessa said at last, forcing a soft, contrite tone. “Sister, I’m sorry. I didn’t think it through.”

Aurora gave a cold snort and walked past her without so much as a glance, following Lucas inside.

From behind, Tessa watched their figures disappear into the dining room–so perfectly matched and effortlessly in sync.

Rage burned in her chest, though she kept her face perfectly composed.

With Grace watching, she couldn’t afford a single slip.

Fine.

Let them have their moment.

She could wait. She’d waited years already; what was a little longer?

If Grace wanted to win Lucas over, then she’d let her.

It would only work to her advantage.

The stronger their family ties, the better it was for the company.

And when the Walton Corporation thrived, she–its operations director–would have an easier climb.

The shareholders would start seeing her differently, and securing new projects would become far simpler.

Her mind raced with possibilities, all masked behind a calm smile.

Meanwhile, Aurora and Lucas had no idea what schemes were forming behind them. To them, it was just a dinner–a brief, polite visit before they could quietly leave again.

At the table, Grace was all smiles, constantly reaching out with her fork to fill Lucas’ plate, her attention hovering almost entirely on him.

Aurora noticed it immediately. Her brow lifted, and the edge of her voice carried unmistakable sarcasm. “Mom, is this dinner for Lucas, or am I just an afterthought?”

She wasn’t in the mood to keep up appearances anymore; it was time to lay things bare.

Grace froze for a split second, her smile stiffening.

Then, recovering quickly, she let out a forced laugh. “Oh, come now. Don’t be ridiculous. You’re my daughter. I raised you, didn’t I? Why would I ever treat you like you’re not important?”

“Oh, really?” Aurora arched a brow, her tone icy. “That’s strange. I don’t seem to remember it that way. All I recall is you calling for Tessa every other sentence.”

Grace froze, her smile faltering. For a moment, she was speechless.

This ungrateful child.

Why did she have to remember that now of all times? Had she truly forgotten all the times Grace had been good to her?

Across the table, Lucas’ expression remained unreadable, his posture calm but distant. The dishes Grace placed in front of him went untouched.

“There’s no need,” he said flatly. “You should eat, Mrs. Walton. I can serve myself.”

Grace’s face darkened instantly.

These two were so alike. Even their tone carried the same quiet defiance. Was this dinner meant to humiliate her?

She forced a tight, awkward laugh. “Of course, of course. Help yourself. That’s… that’s better, isn’t it?”

“Mom, you don’t have to keep fussing,” Aurora said coolly. “Once we’re done eating, we’ll be heading back.”

Her face was calm, but her words sharp. She’d already seen through Grace’s intentions.

This dinner wasn’t about family; it was about leverage. And Aurora wasn’t interested in playing along.

Chapter 1422