A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“Hey, did you see the video I sent you? Oh my god, I nearly died laughing! Those two–one looking all pale and the other dark as night–they’re a real pair!” Stella’s voice on the phone was bubbling with glee.

“I saw it,” Alessia replied, sitting in the car with a fond smile in her voice. “Is the party over?”

“Not yet. I ducked out as soon as the best part was done. Are you back yet?”

“On my way.”

“How’s your mom doing?” Stella had already changed out of her evening gown, waving goodbye to a few guests before heading straight upstairs. Liam was singing in the living room, but the moment Stella came in, his eyes followed her until she disappeared from sight.

“Same as always.”

Stella let out a soft sigh, at a loss for words for a moment.

“How’s my third brother holding up lately?”

Stella glanced down at her phone. “He’s doing alright. Business is steady, and he’s bringing in new clients. Don’t worry, even if he weren’t your brother, he’s still an employee at my café. I wouldn’t let anyone mess with him.”

“Found a new singer for the place yet?”

handsome and sing well–and just when I finally

I find someone promising, I’ll send him your

what I

“Alright, I’m hanging up. See you

“Yeah, see you.”

a crawl, finally stopping when it was clear it

park here. Make sure to log your overtime before you leave.” Alessia stepped out, sent Zachary a quick text, and didn’t bother when he didn’t reply–it was more out of routine than anything

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14:44

Zachary under the lamplight, deep in conversation

the lack of a text back. She gave a little wave and called out to

up, and the other man turned as well, his eyes meeting

voice carried through the night, smooth as silk, but Alessia felt a chill run down

are you doing here? And for the

together.” Max wasn’t offended; he leaned against the car, a smile on his lips that never

in silent reply. When it came to cold and ruthless, who could outdo the eldest son