A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“Thanks for helping out today.”

“Come on, you don’t have to say that.” Eddie flicked her forehead in a playful, big–brotherly way. “Looks like the amusement park’s off the table, huh? But you said he likes to draw, right?”

Alessia nodded.

“Mind if I talk to him for a bit?”

Her raised eyebrow said all he needed to know.

Eddie grinned and crouched down, making himself eye level with Ivan. As soon as he did, Ivan let go of Alessia’s hand and ducked behind her, using her as a shield.

Alessia didn’t try to coax him out. Instead, she just reached back and gently patted

his head.

“Ivan, at least listen when someone’s talking to you.” Her voice was soft, not even close to lecturing, but it had a calming steadiness to it that made it hard not to

relax.

Ivan stopped trying to disappear and peeked out from behind Alessia, gripping the hem of her shirt for security.

mouthful, so if you want, you can just call me Ed.” Eddie looked him

his hand. Ivan hesitated, but Eddie didn’t rush him. He just kept smiling, patient, as

tentative handshake–barely a

job,” Eddie

little pink, and he

he stood and held open the car door for

your studio’s

smile on his face. “Just because I’m away doesn’t mean it

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11.49

Chapter 113

are you heading out

art show coming up

and gazing out the window. At the sound of her voice, he glanced over,

letting the question drop, and reached over

Eddie, ever the gentleman, opened the door for them and led them into

garden was beautifully kept, the flowers and shrubs all pruned and vibrant. The studio itself was built from old red brick, carrying that romantic, old–European charm–like something out of a storybook castle. Ivy crawled up the walls, but the giant glass windows

curiosity, though he stayed glued to Alessia’s side, not