A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Stella nodded approvingly. “That’s just like you–not interested in anyone without real ability. And if Mr. Dawson actually agreed to take him on as a student, you know he must be talented.”

She glanced at Alessia. “So, how’s it going between you two? If things aren’t working out, don’t force yourself. It’s not like you have nowhere else to go.”

Alessia shook her head, losing track of how many times she’d already explained this. Still, her tone was patient, never once betraying any irritation at her friend’s

concern.

The conversation paused for a moment. Then, as if struck by a sudden thought, Stella crossed her long legs and leaned in, eyes keenly focused on Alessia.

“I just got an invitation from the Tates. It’s for some big family reunion dinner–seems like they’re planning to officially welcome their long–lost daughter. Any idea what you’re going to do? Or should I go stir up some trouble for you?”

Alessia let out a soft laugh. “You? Stirring up trouble?”

Stella rubbed her nose, slightly embarrassed. “That last time at the Thornes‘ party was honestly an accident. All I did was air out some of Hugo’s dirty laundry from school–how could I have guessed he’d lose his cool like that?”

She rolled her eyes. “A grown man, can’t out–argue me, can’t out–fight me–pathetic.” Truth be told, the whole fiasco had started because of Alessia.

at their school for being a playboy and a lazy troublemaker, constantly pestering Alessia. The problem was, the Tates and the Thornes did business together, so Alessia couldn’t just cut ties openly. That’s why Stella always stepped in–and by now, everyone at school knew Stella and Hugo

a birthday party for their patriarch. The Tates, hoping to push Alessia and Hugo together, made

he did, hurling insults and even trying to hit Stella in front of all the guests. But Stella wasn’t exactly helpless. Even in her evening gown, she flipped him flat on his back. The room fell silent; Patriarch Thorne’s face went

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overseas by his family, left to fend for himself. On his very first night abroad, he ran into local troublemakers and nearly lost his life. Though they managed to save

the Tates and Thornes quietly dropped any plans for an engagement between

was coming to him,” Stella said, grinning. “Though I can’t help but think it was all a little too convenient–if

friend. Stella realized she’d said too much and quickly mimed

Max,” she continued, “are the Tate siblings coming back

answered honestly. “No

since you left the Tates, they haven’t tried

shook her head, her expression

her tongue in disapproval. “Figures. Cold–blooded, every last one