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?”

a sharp scream shattered the silence of the mansion. A figure tumbled/down the

floor below.

caught the city bus to the clinic. The alleyway was as

backyard, the old wooden door yawning open as usual. Xander

1/3

11:54 1

along, eyes half–closed, the

“No snacks today?”

Am I seeing things, or did you actually come by in broad daylight?” Xander sat up, teasing Alessia, though the grin tugging at his lips gave him

my brother,” Alessia shot back, deliberately

“Heartless kid.”

this to the others.” Alessia dangled

Ever since Alessia cleared out

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

wasted no time. He grabbed a piece, took a bite, and

“These are fantastic.”

some for the others,” Alessia

yeah, I hear you.” Xander

are the other two?” Alessia asked, but instead of leaving, she pulled up

in the front