With Lucy’s gentle encouragement, Ileana nervously returned to the classroom. At first, discomfort clung to her every movement, but as she realized no one was paying her any special attention, she finally exhaled in relief. Gone was the cheerful, outgoing girl from before; in her place was someone careful and quiet, doing everything possible to avoid drawing notice.

Whenever she accidentally made a noise, no matter how small, Ileana would glance anxiously at Lucy. Only when Lucy met her eyes with a reassuring nod did she allow herself to relax again.

Of course, others noticed this change in her, too. Her air of wounded vulnerability was so conspicuous that most people simply decided to ignore her. The day passed without further incident–a welcome relief.

After school, crowds of students poured out of the building.

“Hey, isn’t that Max?” someone whispered nearby.

“Who?”

“You know, the guy who’s always on the school website. Didn’t you go to the family party yesterday?”

Realization dawned on the friend, who smacked her companion’s arm, excitement written all over her face. “He’s even more stunning in person than in those photos. No wonder no one’s come close to knocking him off his pedestal all these years.”

“What’s he doing here?”

bet? Is he here for Alessia

Besides, she’s his little sister. Alessia’s been at this school forever–have you ever seen Max

moment?” one friend said, eyes sparkling, unconsciously slowing her pace as she kept glancing

stood.

the other girl replied, instantly convinced. Several others who’d witnessed yesterday’s

practically a sport

1/2

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Chapter 83

wait long before one of the story’s stars

that your brother?” Lucy nudged her. Ileana had already spotted him her whole face brightened, convinced Max was here

was no way they’d let the family’s reputation take a hit–at least not in front of everyone. Max had

night reassuring me. He promised to take me out for a fancy dinner,” Ileana said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, a

nodded, understanding. “Then go on–don’t keep your brother

Ileana

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