A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“We’ve arrived, young master.” The butler opened the car door, and boy and dog stepped out together. Aside from a few scattered staff, the grand house felt utterly devoid of warmth or life.

“No one’s coming home for dinner tonight?” The boy’s face was babyish, but his tone held a chill far beyond his years.

“Mr. and Mrs. Morton are both attending a gala this evening. But your sister’s upstairs,” Mae replied, setting out his shoes by the door.

“Just bring my dinner up to my room. Rex, come.” York’s voice was flat, betraying nothing. He swapped his shoes, took Rex’s leash, and headed for the stairs.

He was already in a sour mood, and it only got worse when he nearly collided with Ileana coming down from upstairs. Whatever mischief he might’ve plotted on a better day, York wasn’t interested today–he just kept walking, his dog in tow.

“At the very least, I’m still your big sister. Doesn’t that warrant a greeting?” Ileana’s annoyance was plain; York’s indifference stung.

Back at the Morton family estate, Ivan would never have dared treat her like this.

York stopped and let out a derisive laugh. “You want me to call you ‘Miss Morton‘ and pretend you’re on my level?”

Ileana’s face fell. Her brothers had both embarrassed her lately, and she was done putting up with it.

“And Alessia actually deserves that name? Don’t forget–she’s a Morton now!” Anger flashed in Ileana’s eyes. She clenched her fists, fury finally outweighing her wariness. She reached out, but York didn’t notice the threat at all.

“So what? Don’t flatter yourself. Compared to Alessia, what makes you think you

measure up?”

even finished, a sharp scream shattered the silence of the mansion. A figure tumbled/down the stairs, limbs flailing all the

floor below.

the city bus to the clinic. The alleyway was as

into the backyard, the old wooden door yawning open as usual. Xander was sprawled out in his favorite armchair,

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eyes half–closed, the

“No snacks today?”

come by in broad daylight?” Xander sat up, teasing Alessia, though the grin tugging

check on my brother,” Alessia shot back, deliberately provoking

“Heartless kid.”

I’ll just give this to the others.” Alessia dangled a

Xander’s eyes lit up. Ever since Alessia cleared out his snack stash last time, he’d been craving something

over some lemon bars–fresh out of the oven.” Alessia opened the box and set

a piece, took a bite, and

“These are fantastic.”

eat them all–save some for the

yeah, I hear you.” Xander waved her

two?” Alessia asked, but instead of leaving, she

the front