Your Gold Digger is Actually A True Heiress by Vera Fiore

Chapter 28

At the hospital, Thalia met Asher’s eyes with quiet resolve. “If I told you there’s more to Grace’s story, would you believe me?”

The silence stretched between them. Thalia felt her heart sink–what a foolish question. Of course he would choose Grace, his sister of so many years, over an arranged match he barely knew.

But Asher’s response came without hesitation: “I trust you completely.”

The words hung in the air, stunning them both.

Grace’s face went ashen. “Asher, how can you–she’s lying! I’m your sister!”

“That’s enough.” Asher’s voice carried a razor’s edge. “From the moment you met Thalia, you’ve shown nothing but hostility. And now this ridiculous story about her spooking Snow?” His eyes hardened. “I know Thalia. She would never do something like that.”

Thalia stood speechless, her throat tight with emotion. She’d been so certain he would side with Grace. The depth of his trust left her reeling.

“Grace” Asher’s tone could have frozen flame. “Remember your place in this family.”

The implied message was crystal clear: Being the Blackwoods‘ ward didn’t make her truly one of them.

Grace’s lips trembled as tears spilled down her cheeks. She opened her mouth but no sound emerged.

“Get some rest,” Asher said curtly, turning to leave.

By Grace’s bedside, Thalia regarded the sobbing girl with cool detachment. “Was it worth it?”

Outside in the parking lot, Asher fell into step beside Thalia. “I’m sorry about all this.”

“What are you apologizing for?”

“Grace’s behavior–it’s inexcusable.” He ran a hand through his hair. “I’ll get to the bottom of this.”

a soft, humorless laugh. “No need. I already know why.”

do you

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really don’t see it? Grace is in love with you, Asher. That’s why she

the pieces

appropriate boundaries with her from now on,” he

like that?” Thalia asked, surprised.

looked at her. “Because I want you to feel secure

I meant.” Thalia shook her head. “Why did you believe me over Grace? She’s

parking lot lights cast a warm glow through the windshield as Asher turned to face her fully. The

you,” he said simply. “And

– eat.

skipped a beat. She turned away quickly, grateful for

sight of her reddened ears, Asher smiled softly. His Thalia was adorable when she was

scratch on the horse’s neck–a mark that could

Asher stopped visiting Grace at the hospital entirely. Though he arranged premium care for her–private nurses and regular meals delivered

details together. Whether choosing Thalia’s gown or picking out jewelry, Asher remained steadfastly by her side. No matter how much Grace protested,

them closer. Asher’s unwavering

Drake had left her wary of rushing into feelings–she found herself warming to Asher’s steady devotion. There was something profoundly moving about being trusted so completely, being chosen

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Chapter 28

engagement party for November 15th,

private salon, Thalia’s phone buzzed. Models similar to

stunning on you,” he

like it too,” she agreed. “And that cream coat caught my eye.”

again. Asher deliberately turned away, giving her privacy–a small gesture that

her and Drake at Glacier National Park in Montana. The accompanying text dripped