A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Alessia sprawled across the bed, the soft mattress instantly easing the tension in her body. She’d been pampered her whole life–falling asleep was easy, but

sleeping well was a whole different story.

Cole must have known that, too. He’d even swapped out her old mattress for something better. She rolled over twice, just starting to drift off when her phone buzzed.

On the other side of the room divider, Ivan was focused on his sketchbook. Alessia didn’t bother to hide the call; she answered right away.

“Hello?” Her voice was languid, barely mustering any energy.

“Miss Morton, forced into manual labor? You sound wiped out.”

“Venmo me fifty bucks and I’ll regale you with my rags–to–riches saga,” she shot

back.

Cole chuckled, the sound low and warm across the line as his fingers slid over his screen. “All sorted out, then?”

“Yeah. I really am a spoiled princess,” Alessia admitted, stretching out on the bed with genuine relief.

Just as she finished speaking, her phone chimed–a new transfer notification. Another hundred thousand dollars.

a thank–you card or just bow in gratitude?” Alessia accepted the money without a second thought; after all, her own funds went straight into Cole’s account these days. Their relationship

sent a pleasant shiver down her spine. “It’s not like you don’t have a place to stay. How

running her fingers through her hair with a careless shrug. “It’s actually

and Zachary returned home

called out as soon as she heard the door open, setting aside what she’d

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told Ethan about the shop thing yesterday. He waited for me at work and we

too? Have you

So, how’s

Lessie–she pulled some strings and got the business license sorted for us. Saved

completely forgot about that until it basically landed in my lap,” Brendan added, handing

surprised,

help. It wasn’t a

it off.

Justin? No pressure, just curious,” Brendan

each other since we were kids. He’s a good guy. If he