A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Brendan’s words instantly dampened the excitement in the room. Alessia understood exactly what he was getting at–he wanted to know if she’d bought the shop with money from the Tate family.

She couldn’t help but smile. Just as she always managed to surprise the Mortons, the Mortons themselves never failed to catch her off guard with their behavior.

“Don’t worry,” she said softly, “I invested my own money and earned it myself. Not a single cent came from the Tates.” Not unless you count Cole’s, she thought privately.

Brendan, however, didn’t look particularly pleased, even after her reassurance.

“Still, business is business, Lessie. We need to keep the rent fair and square. Let’s draw up a contract. We’ll rent the place from you at market price. What do you think?”

Alessia’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Actually, I have a better idea than just charging you rent.”

All three of them fixed their gaze on her, waiting for her to go on.

“I’ll let you use the shop rent–free-”

“No way,” Karen interjected, cutting her off. Alessia remained calm, patting Karen’s hand gently to settle her nerves.

“Not only will you pay no rent, I’ll cover all the renovation costs, too. Of course, you’ll still have to pay utilities.”

your condition?” Brendan asked, as if they were negotiating a business deal across

and we split the profits.

worried you’ll

reason the place shouldn’t make money.” Alessia’s

you

contract, or if know a good lawyer, they can look it over. Even family should

“Let’s have my brother

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talking late into the night, until Alessia stifled a yawn and everyone realized it was nearly

the scattered papers from the table and giving Zachary a

got up to head to

Brendan called after

paused, and Karen and Zachary did the

finances. Always keep something to yourself, even with family. You