He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. “Ileana, is there something you’re not telling us? If there’s anything troubling you, you can talk to us. Mom, Dad, your brothers–we’ll do everything we can to help.”

“And what exactly can you help me with?” Ileana’s face was openly mocking, not even trying to hide her scorn.

“Can you get me into the academy? Buy me a thirty–thousand–dollar dress? Or maybe move me out of this tiny, filthy apartment building? What is it, exactly, that you all can do for me? What can you possibly give me that I actually want?”

Her words hit like a slap, leaving everyone in the room visibly shaken and pale.

“Are you serious about all this?” Ethan, the eldest, was usually the most composed. His gaze was dark and deep as a midnight well, fixed on Ileana, but she didn’t even flinch.

And at that moment, he finally understood.

“So, when exactly did you find out you were the Tate family’s missing daughter?” Liam finally voiced the question none of them dared to ask, and Ileana’s eyes flickered with a hint of guilt.

“That’s not something you need to know.” Ileana stood up, impatience creeping into

her voice.

strangers. Don’t bother me, and I won’t bother you.

there, chin lifted high in

about that million–you can rest easy. Even if the Mortons are so broke we’re sleeping on the street,

down every trace of emotion. “Go.

forward, Ileana never

bus announced the next stop, and

1/2

16:44

Chapter 88

was sinking slowly, streaks of

by choice, Alessia found herself being ushered

them to their table. The whole place was empty except for staff and the two of them–Max

a chance to dine here if you were still with the Mortons,” Max said,

in the slightest. She gave a faint, amused smile and

you around, I doubt I could stomach even

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255