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.

you up 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 hadn’t

she realized three

and ex–little brother,” she explained

echoed the terms, a wry smile

they care about you. They just don’t know how to show it,” Karen said gently, trying to soothe

twitched, but there wasn’t

here, Lessie. Sit with us.”

about to say, but she went and sat down

afraid Max will do anything

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

good points?”

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 over here tonight just for you. Honestly, you’d probably

to kick me out?” Alessia

be your home. But if you have a better option, as your family, we’d never