A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Before Zachary could say a word, Alessia landed a quick kick to Pierce’s shin. It wasn’t hard, but the message was clear: back off.

Pierce looked wounded, though he hadn’t really said anything wrong. Besides, the rivalry between them and Crestview High was old news–trading jabs when they crossed paths was practically tradition. He couldn’t even go buy breakfast without getting mocked by someone from Crestview.

Annoyed but unable to protest, Pierce sulked in silence, his face full of complaint.

“This is my second brother,” Alessia announced.

Pierce’s eyes went wide as he glanced between the two of them. “Wait… so it’s

true?”

Alessia ignored him and turned to Zachary instead. “I’m heading in.”

“Alright, I’ll wait for you at the gate after school. No rush–take your time,” Zachary replied.

She nodded and shot Pierce a look, then the two of them made their way toward the school. The crowd dispersed; the morning buzz faded as everyone drifted back

to their routines.

onto campus, Pierce couldn’t

whole family reunion thing

got an invitation

just happened to spot a stack of invitations when the butler was sorting them yesterday. But I don’t even know Ileana–I figured it must be some distant branch of the Tate family from the middle of nowhere, so I didn’t bother. When I

not a hint of sadness on her face. “The real

“Hey, that’s not-”

Alessia!” A girl came striding over,

greeting. “News travels

13:50

Penny Sullivan bumped

out and you’re still worried about clothes?” Alessia looked

gave her a look that said, You

money you get selling your stuff goes straight into your pocket. Should I pity you? Please, pity

alright. I knew you’d ask, so I set aside one just like it. I’ll leave it in your locker

you look at the design sketches

dress is nice. I’ll send

slipping away as if they were just classmates who barely knew