A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Eddie pressed his lips together and set Ivan’s latest drawing in front of Alessia.

“Dark, twisted, suffocating… That’s a lot of negativity for a seven–year–old. You must be a little unnerved too, right?” Alessia just glanced at the picture.

She’d seen Ivan’s artwork before–she knew it all too well.

“You’ve noticed it too, haven’t you? He’s not like most kids on the spectrum.”

“What do you think?” Instead of answering Eddie’s question, Alessia tossed out her

own.

“If

you ask me, it’s less autism and more like… he’s been through something–some kind of abuse, maybe? He’s on guard, always, but at least he’s willing to leave the house. He talks to people, so he can’t be doing too badly.”

Eddie propped his chin on his hand, long lashes casting shadows under his eyes as he pondered.

“But if, as you say, he barely sees anyone outside and his family is so protective…

he

Exactly–where?

flickered through Alessia’s mind, but without proof, she refused to

an idea.” Eddie shot her

eating and, imitating her, was quietly tidying up his

brought him by from time to time? It’s not healthy for a kid to be

next few months anyway, but even if I’m not, you’re

fact that he’s willing to go out is a great sign. Shutting himself in would only shrink his world smaller and smaller, and that won’t help

style. If only I could get a little closer to him.” She thought of how she’d once needed saving herself–and now wanted to be that lifeline

1/2

14:48)

I don’t think he’s as distant with you as you fear.” Alessia’s gaze lingered on Ivan

encouragement.

stood and walked over to

acknowledge him either. He just stared at the spines of magazines on the

York, another seven–year–old boy at that age when every adult’s patience is tested–Ivan was quiet, gentle, even when sick, never

for grabs, you know,” Eddie said, kneeling and pulling