Lia and Aliyah returned from college, still giggling about their friend Matt's hilarious reaction when a girl asked him out on a date. The memory of his awkward face had them both in stitches as they walked into the courtyard.
As their laughter slowly faded, Aliyah's expression turned thoughtful. She was about to introduce Lia to a significant person in her life – her big brother, Ace Ryder, who was arriving home that day. Lia was curious about this mysterious brother she had heard so much about.
Just as Aliyah was about to share more about Ace, he slipped out of the mansion to observe from afar, unaware of the conversation about him. He caught a glimpse of the two girls in the courtyard, particularly noticing the petite girl with big brown eyes walking beside his sister.
Ace quickly retreated back into the mansion, missing the perfect opportunity for Lia and him to meet. Now, Lia remained oblivious to the fact that she had just barely missed encountering the charismatic Ace Ryder.
Lia and Aliyah entered the mansion, still chatting about their college adventures. Aliyah's curiosity about her brother's arrival shifted to concern – "Where is Ace?" she wondered.
Catherine Ryder, Aliyah's mother, greeted them warmly in the foyer. She mentioned that Ace had already left with his father, Victor Ryder, for a meeting – "A business discussion that couldn't wait" was her brief explanation.
Aliyah's eyes narrowed slightly, accepting her mother's words. Lia observed the family interaction with interest, still unaware of the brother who had slipped away just moments before.
Meanwhile, upstairs, Victor Ryder had indeed taken Ace to the Ryder Corporation headquarters for a crucial briefing – "Preparing him for his future role" – while downstairs, Lia continued to mingle with her closest friend Aliyah, oblivious to the powerful family dynamics unfolding around her.
"By the way. Lia dear please get dressed don't forget you coming with us laterrrr". Catherine says winking at Lia, before walking away.
Lia knew she couldn't say No because Mrs Ryder will never take No for an answer.
Lia Richard's life was intricately woven into the fabric of the Ryder family's privileged world. Her mother, Evelyn Richard, had been the Ryder's loyal and trusted head maid for nearly two decades – 19 years of dedicated service earned her a permanent place in their hearts.
Evelyn's devotion and discretion made her indispensable; Victor and Catherine Ryder relied on her for everything from managing the household staff to handling sensitive family matters. Over time, the Ryders embraced Evelyn as a beloved member of their extended family – and by extension, her daughter Lia.
Lia grew up playing alongside Aliyah Ryder in the mansion's lavish playgrounds and exploring Manhattan together during summer breaks from school. The Ryder family treated Lia like a surrogate daughter – spoiling her with affection, gifts, and opportunities normally reserved for their biological child.
Victor would often say, "Lia's as much our daughter as Aliyah; Evelyn's loyalty and love have earned them both a permanent place in our family."
Catherine added, "We've watched Lia blossom into a brilliant and beautiful young woman – Aliyah's sister in every way except blood."
Aliyah herself cherished Lia as a true sibling – sharing secrets, dreams, and adventures together. The sisters' bond strengthened as they navigated adolescence and young adulthood side by side.
Lia's life was filled with:
* Annual family vacations around the world
* Insider access to Ryder Corporation events and galas
* Unconditional love and support from the entire Ryder family
As Lia approached adulthood, her path seemed intertwined with the Ryders' – but would she forge her own destiny or remain closely tied to the family she loved?
Which is why Lia is always included in everything. But her mum always reminds her that she also needs to repay them by working.