A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

The two girls left the classroom, chatting and laughing, while the rest of the students began packing up their things one after another.

At the front gates, Zachary was already waiting. Wanting to avoid drawing. unnecessary attention, he lingered just outside Crestview High, eyes fixed on the building across the street. He was hoping to see Alessia emerge, but instead, he locked eyes with Ileana.

Zachary’s expression flickered with emotion. Ileana, however, only hesitated for a split second before looking away, pretending not to recognize him at all.

“What’s wrong?” Lucy followed Ileana’s gaze, but Ileana quickly gave her hand a gentle tug.

“It’s nothing. But you have to promise me you’ll come to the family welcome dinner tomorrow. You’re my first real friend here. I’ll feel so much better if you’re there.”

“Of course I’ll come, don’t worry.” Lucy pulled her gaze back, patted Ileana’s shoulder, and smiled sweetly.

“My driver’s here, so I’ll head off.” Ileana waved, climbing into the car.

“Yeah, bye!” Lucy waved back, her smile unwavering until Ileana’s car had disappeared around the corner. Then her face dropped, the warmth vanishing as quickly as it had come. She shot Zachary a cold glance before getting into her own

car.

Zachary stayed where he was, certain that Ileana had seen him–she’d just chosen to act as if she hadn’t.

He lowered his head, the corners of his mouth drooping in a faint, bitter smile. “Right. You take your road, I’ll take mine. Maybe that’s for the best.” His voice was barely a whisper, swept away by the wind.

“Zach!” A cheerful voice snapped him out of his thoughts. He looked up to see Alessia waving, making her way towards him.

“Did you wait long?”

reached for Alessia’s backpack,

gave me? If it’s from her, you know

chuckled and ruffled

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14:41

Chapter ou

you–my childhood friend,

Zachary greeted. Stella nodded politely, but didn’t say

had clearly been to see Zachary; now that she had, she seemed satisfied. Their easy

new spirits just arrived at the bar. I’m going to check them out,”

on,

casual wave, Stella turned and vanished

see if Mom and Dad need any help. If you

would I wait at the

and only then did Alessia notice the curious glances from people passing by.

embarrassed to be seen with me?”

Zachary’s eyes went wide

“Then let’s go.”

“But-”