In the Lap of Luxury

Chapter 542 Get Rid of Her Ambitions

The photos clearly showed Esme and another younger man in an intimate position, suggesting they had a close relationship.

Esme's expression turned odd. She asked, "Ms. Lewis, what are you implying?"

"The difference between you and Mr. Thorne is that one of you has been exposed, and the other hasn't."

"But I'm not a public figure. It won't really affect me, even if this is exposed."

"Really?" Grace replied with a knowing smile, stirring her coffee.

"In this circle, aren't you afraid of being the subject of gossip among the other ladies, becoming a laughing stock over tea and dinner?"

Esme tensed up, obviously concerned.

Grace had learned about these circles during her time with Benjamin With no jobs or financial worries, these women spent their days having tea and gossiping.

Being the center of discussion was a fatal fall from grace.

Esme took a deep breath. "Currently, the public is condemning Willow and Matthew. Me speaking up won't solve anything."

"I'm not asking you to come forward."

"Then what do you suggest—"

"You don't have children with Mr. Thorne yet, right? Regardless of Willow's situation, the child is real. Would you be happy if he inherited the vast family wealth?"

Grace's words hit the nail on the head.

Esme clenched her fingers tightly and muttered, "Of course not."

"So this is an excellent opportunity."

Grace sipped her coffee. "My suggestion is that Mr. Thorne cut off all contact with Willow, and you step in to get rid of her ambitions."

Esme's eyes lit up with determination at her words. "Go on."

"Now the most heated topic is the child. If you take the child under your wing, you control both parties' power.

"You can maintain the reputation of being wronged yet virtuous. Who would be the biggest winner then?"

Esme couldn't help but smile. "Ms. Lewis, you have a knack for manipulating people's hearts."

"I'm flattered. I'm offering you advice, but of course, I have my own motives."

"I'll resolve the public opinion for you."

Grace was satisfied with her response. "Once we get past this, I assure you a lifetime of wealth and honor."

After sending Esme off, Grace returned to her car.

"What's the progress on Ashley's side?"

"She has connections in the entertainment industry and has found Willow's current location," Luke answered.

"But will Matthew allow Esme to do this?"

"For his career, he will."

Sometimes, Grace felt tormented. She didn't want to resort to such measures, but she had to be cunning when at a disadvantage.

Everything proceeded secretly, with the public uproar continuing to froth on the surface.

Late at night, as Grace scrolled through the trending topics, feeling weary, she messaged Emily to thank her for the photos.

The lead on Esme had been a spur-of-the-moment idea. Knowing that wealthy ladies loved shopping, she had asked Emily to look for any clues, and sure enough, they had found her at a luxury store.

Emily responded with an unamused emoji. "If you thank me again, I'll come over to your place."

Grace smiled, but it faded soon. Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

She thought of Xander, wishing he were there. Even if he did nothing, his presence always comforted her.

She contemplated calling him but hesitated.

Xander probably had his hands full at Fulton Group. It was better not to worry him.