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.

Max said, his calm voice a stark contrast to York’s

didn’t answer, just shut the door behind them. With the two finally gone, she let out a long sigh

about to wash up when she realized three pairs of eyes were fixed

Tate brothers–my ex–big brother and ex–little brother,” she explained

ex–little brother…” Zachary echoed the terms, a wry

know how

twitched, but there

with

knew what Brendan was about to say, but

have to be afraid Max will do anything to

to us. It’s just…

points?” Alessia’s eyes

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 over here tonight just for you.

trying to kick me out?” Alessia arched

But if