Lydia figured Soren must have been trying to scare Sandy. He went all out with his disguise and even took her somewhere completely out of the way. In the end, though, Sandy turned things around on him. With the crime scene wiped clean by fire, she managed to get away.
Lydia sent the footage she’d clipped to Byron. The second he got it, he was so thrilled he almost dropped to his knees in thanks. Seriously, how did she crack the case this fast? He messaged her, full of awe. [You’re a genius. Seriously, you’re like magic.]
Lydia had just shut her laptop when someone knocked on her door. Kylie’s soft voice floated in. “Lydia, are you in there?”
Lydia walked over and opened the door to find Kylie looking at her with gentle concern. “Lucinda’s already picked out her dress for tonight. Have you decided what you’re wearing yet? Do you want me to help you choose?”
Lucinda was right beside her, smiling sweetly. “Yeah, have you picked out your outfit? Want us to help?”
Lydia answered calmly. “I’m just going to wear what I’ve got on.” She was dressed in a fitted black piece from her LYLX collection, comfy but sharp. It was her usual style.
Lucinda’s eyes widened in surprise. “You’re going to the Robinsons’ like that?”
Kylie smiled, shaking her head slightly. “That’s just how Lydia likes to dress, and she looks great. Besides, it’s just a family dinner. There’s no dress code.”
Lucinda still looked uneasy. “But…”
Before she could finish, Garrett’s voice cut in from behind. “Lydia’s Miss L. Whatever she wears is instantly cool.”
Kylie turned around, surprised and happy. “Garrett, you’re home early?”
Garrett had pulled an all-nighter at the lab with Kevin, trying to figure out an antidote for Lydia. He ran a hand through his hair, looking tired but determined. “We’re all going to the Robinsons’ tonight, so I wanted to get back early,” he said, glancing at Lydia. “What you’re wearing really suits you. It’s got personality.”
The truth was, Lydia still had some injuries. Wearing a formal dress wasn’t a good idea.
Lydia didn’t want him to worry. She managed a small smile. “I’m taking my meds, really. I’m fine. See? I look totally okay.”
Garrett didn’t look convinced. He let out a heavy sigh, his gaze steady and sincere. “Lydia, we finished analyzing the virus sample.”
She paused, picking up on his mood. “Is it complicated?”
Garrett nodded. “We found traces of a virus from an iceberg. Falcon’s clues point to their bioresearch base in Country D. Once the holiday’s over, I’ll go check it out. They have a lot of samples from the iceberg there. Maybe I’ll find something useful.”
Lydia shook her head. “You don’t need to go. I can work out the antidote. It’s just a matter of time.”
Garrett looked at her, his voice gentle but firm. “I know you can do it, but you need to rest right now. Don’t push yourself. Trust me, okay? Let me bring the antidote back for you.”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Ready to Rule: The Real Heiress Strikes Back