Sorry My Step-Uncle, I'm Not Your Backup Plan novel Chapter 38

At the hospital, Gabriella 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. Gabriella 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 Gabriella, you've shown nothing but hostility. And now this ridiculous story about her spooking Snow?" His eyes hardened. "I know Gabriella. She would never do something like that."

Gabriella 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, Gabriella regarded the sobbing girl with cool detachment. "Was it worth it?"

Outside in the parking lot, Asher fell into step beside Gabriella. "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."

Gabriella gave a soft, humorless laugh. "No need. I already know why."

"What do you mean?"

She met his gaze directly. "You really don't see it? Grace is in love with you, Asher. That's why she sees me as competition."

Asher's brow furrowed as the pieces fell into place.

"I'll maintain appropriate boundaries with her from now on," he said firmly.

"Just like that?" Gabriella asked, surprised. "Why?"

His eyes softened as he looked at her. "Because I want you to feel secure with me."

"That's not what I meant." Gabriella shook her head. "Why did you believe me over Grace? She's been your sister for years."

The parking lot lights cast a warm glow through the windshield as Asher turned to face her fully. The love in his eyes was unmistakable.

"Because I love you," he said simply. "And love means trust without question."