A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Ileana hadn’t expected Scott to say that. Her head snapped up, eyes wide with shock.

“Sir, your tea is ready.”

At that moment, Mae knocked on the study’s door.

Mae set the teacup down and quietly left. Ileana stood frozen, unsure what to say.

“I… Alessia, she… after all, she’s been with her classmates for two years. Of course, she’s closer to them,” Ileana stammered, fumbling for an excuse and forgetting

what she’d meant to call her.

“So, since you can’t compete with her, you take it out on people beneath you?”

“I… I’m sorry.” The apology slipped out before Ileana could catch herself. With her head bowed, she missed the look of disappointment in Scott’s eyes.

“Sorry for what?” Scott’s tone was cold, commanding respect without a hint of warmth. He looked at Ileana not as a father, but as a superior addressing a

subordinate.

out at the maid just because I was upset at school,” she

“Wrong.”

dare protest. Scott left his seat and walked toward her. She could only stare at his polished shoes,

gaze.

“Look at me.”

were full of uncertainty and avoidance, but to Scott, they seemed cold and unfeeling–like a stagnant pool no one could

let anyone catch you. If you want a place in your class, earn it. Use money, connections–whatever it takes. Turn people into your allies and make

at him, disbelief swirling in her eyes. Scott’s gaze remained icy and

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care what you were before. Now you carry the Tate name. You act with the dignity and composure that’s expected from a member of this family. I will not accept an outsider who just happens to bear our name surpassing my own bloodline. If you can’t

can do it. I will,” Ileana replied, her ambition finally breaking through in her voice. She clenched her fists, eyes fierce with determination–and

coach. Tomorrow’s introduction banquet is

the first time, Ileana managed a faint

the study door clicked shut behind her,