A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Chapter 25

Zachary pressed his lips together, searching for the right words, when Alessia suddenly appeared and gave Six a swift smack on the back of the head. Six yelped, clutching his head, and darted behind Xander for protection.

“Father, did you see that? She hit me again.”

“You talk too much. Serves you right,” Xander replied without missing a beat. Six pouted but didn’t dare argue.

“He’s my real brother. I was switched at birth,” Alessia announced, her tone so matter–of–fact that it made Zachary feel strangely guilty.

Six’s eyes went wide as he glanced between them. “So you got kicked out by the Tate family? When did that happen? I’ve been keeping your old room at Eastwood Estate tidy all this time. Want me to go make up your bed?”

Alessia’s lips curled into a faint smile. She ruffled his hair, her tone softening. “Anyway, my name’s Alessia now. Don’t forget it.”

“I won’t, I won’t,” Six promised quickly, not daring to ask more.

“And the room-?”

“No need for it right now.”

“Oh.” If you listened closely, you could hear a note of disappointment in his voice.

Alessia’s smile never faded. Zachary could tell she was in high spirits–the kind of genuine warmth she’d never shown during her time with the Morton family. Back then, her smiles had always seemed forced, distant. Now, there was a real glow about her.

we’ll be heading out. And no snacking, you hear me? Next time, I’ll bring you something

know. No idea who you got that from.” Xander grumbled, but there was a lightness in his voice that made

I catch you sneaking treats to Grandpa again, I’ll send you on a

you’re my only sister! I wouldn’t dare, really!” Six pressed his palms together in a pleading gesture, nearly dropping to his

1/3

15:38

question?” Zachary’s voice cut in suddenly, drawing

attention.

I drew up a list of the ingredients, but I keep feeling like I missed something. Mr. Dawson, if it’s

and shrugged, making it clear she hadn’t put

did you

the items, even giving rough amounts, impressively

you tell him

“Angelica root,” she said.

“Angelica?” Zachary looked surprised.

dose is small, though. I’m impressed

taken

overlooked the most common one,” Xander added. “Did you study

soaked in herbal baths as a kid. After a while, you pick things

in thought, his