Ready to Rule: The Real Heiress Strikes Back novel Chapter 995

Lydia stayed quiet for a long time before she finally spoke, her face blank. “Take me to see him.”

Garrett’s voice trembled with worry. “But your health…”

“I can handle it.”

Besides looking a little pale, Lydia didn’t look hurt at all.

Connor knew her well enough not to argue. He just nodded. “Alright.”

After the forensics team was done, Luke was placed in the hospital morgue. Connor and Garrett took Lydia there together.

When the heavy door opened, a rush of cold air mixed with the sharp smell of disinfectant hit them. The chill was enough to make anyone shiver. Harsh, white lights glared down on rows of metal lockers. Their surfaces reflected warped shadows, as if hiding secrets no one dared speak of.

Lydia stood at the entrance. She didn’t go in right away. On the outside, she looked calm, but inside, she was falling apart. Luke—the boy she’d always seen as her own brother—was really gone.

She just couldn’t accept it.

“Lydia…” Connor started, but stopped, not knowing what to say. He was scared she wouldn’t be able to take it when she saw Luke’s battered body.

Lydia steadied herself and looked at both of them. “I’m okay.”

A staff member led them inside. The floor tiles were freezing, and every step sounded so loud in the empty, silent space.

When Lydia finally saw Luke, his face pale and lifeless, all the strength she’d built up crumbled. Her heart squeezed so tight it hurt. Breathing felt like dragging glass shards into her lungs. Every breath burned.

“I want to be alone with him for a bit.”

Connor and Garrett exchanged a look, then nodded. “Of course.”

Before he left, Connor hesitated. He spoke softly. “Lydia, Luke wouldn’t want you to put yourself through this.”

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