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

one who stepped in and calmed things down yesterday. Besides, she’s his little sister. Alessia’s been at this school

brother moment?” one friend said, eyes sparkling, unconsciously

stood.

girl replied, instantly convinced.

gossip is practically a sport

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16:43

Chapter 83

didn’t have to wait long before one of

isn’t that your brother?” Lucy nudged her. Ileana had already spotted him her whole face

Max himself had said, they were both Tates. There was no way they’d let the family’s reputation take a hit–at least not in front of everyone. Max had handled last night’s fiasco with grace and authority, and that alone made Ileana certain he’d come today for

yesterday, Max spent the whole night reassuring me. He promised to take me out for a fancy dinner,” Ileana said, tucking a strand of hair behind

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

introduce you,” Ileana insisted,

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