A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

York stuck out his lower lip in a pout and gave the coffee table a sulky little kick, “What, do you like them because their house is falling apart? Because they’re broke?”

Alessia’s brows knitted; she was just about to scold him when the front door swung open. Their heads turned, but Ivan merely glanced their way, headed to the kitchen to pour himself a glass of water, and then slipped quietly back into his room.

He didn’t say a single word. Didn’t even spare them an extra look.

“Alessia! Who is that guy?!” York snapped out of his funk and exploded.

Alessia’s face changed; she immediately clapped a hand over his mouth and, despite his squirming, dragged him toward the door.

“All right, you two troublemakers, your little sister’s waiting for you at home. Don’t keep the whole house up–off you go.” As Alessia spoke, Max followed them out, hands stuffed in his pockets.

“Alessia, who is he?! You’re only allowed to have one little brother–me! You hear me?” York’s muffled protests came through Alessia’s hand as she hustled him

away.

“Behave!” Alessia snapped.

after school tomorrow,” Max said, his calm voice a stark contrast to York’s noisy

With the two finally gone, she let out a long sigh of relief. If she

to wash up when she

and

Zachary echoed the terms, a wry smile tugging at his

care about you. They just don’t know how to

lips twitched, but there wasn’t

with us.” Brendan patted

was about to say, but she went and sat down

anywhere. And you don’t have to be afraid Max will do anything to you–he might be a little unhinged, but

worried they’ll do something to us. It’s just… they made some

good points?” Alessia’s

are around here. Thanks to you, it’s slowly getting better, but let’s be honest–even then, we’re still holding you back. That Tate kid–he’s young, decisive, clearly cares about you. He came all the way

kick me out?”

before: this will always be your home. But if you have