A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Chapter 21

Alessia didn’t miss a beat before steering the conversation in a new direction.

“Hey, didn’t you study law, big bro? Why not draw up a contract? I’ve got a pretty good eye for this stuff. Mom’s barely opened shop today and already has several orders lined up. At this rate, I might actually end up ahead.”

“That’s… Dad’s glad you’re thinking that way, but—”

“Let’s not rush any decisions just yet. Dad, don’t be so quick to shoot this down. Lessie’s idea is actually pretty solid, but we can talk through the details later. For now, let’s focus on what’s in front of us. We’ll see how things go and make plans from there.”

As the eldest, Ethan had a calm steadiness about him that naturally inspired confidence. The discussion had come full circle, and with nothing more to add,

Alessia excused herself and headed to her room to rest.

A new bed really did wonders for her sleep. When Alessia checked the time, it was already ten o’clock..

Just like Ethan had said, Ivan was a quiet sleeper, and when he woke, he simply sat in the corner sketching, silent as a shadow. If it weren’t for the occasional sound of a pen cap twisting off, you’d almost forget anyone else was there.

Not wanting to disturb him, Alessia slipped out and opened the door. She found Brendan, Karen, and Zachary gathered around the living room table, counting something over and over, exchanging excited whispers they could barely suppress. “Morning.”

up! Did

awake. Did you guys do well at the market today?” Alessia couldn’t help but catch their infectious good mood–her voice naturally

theirs.

we didn’t make much, but everything sold out. We made almost two hundred.” Karen’s eyes sparkled as she sorted through a handful of small bills, looking nothing like the gentle, grieving woman she’d been

building and we’d already sold a bunch,”

15:37

like those early days starting out, that thrill of landing

ran his fingers over the crumpled stack

we’ll be a lot busier. Don’t get all flustered like you did

Karen chimed in. “Anyway, Lessie,

and this afternoon,

two really hit it off, huh? Brendan, give Lessie some cash. She hardly gets out, so let her treat herself–whatever you want to eat or drink, go for it.” Karen’s smile was warm and genuine, clearly delighted that her two teenagers were already heading

nineteen–they exchanged a look that was equally

Alessia couldn’t win against Brendan and Karen’s insistence. Standing at the bus stop, she stared at the handful of small change in her palm–something she’d never usually carry–and couldn’t help

it,” Zachary said, noticing

was a curious mix. If someone tried to strong–arm her, she’d push back

how to accept these unexpected little gestures of