A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Seeing that he was in low spirits, Karen kept up a steady flow of chatter, her hands never stopping as she worked.

“Ivan doesn’t have friends his age, and he barely even talks to us. Most days, he’s as silent as a young monk in a cloister. You’re probably the only one who can get a reaction out of him, and honestly, I’m glad to see that.”

York wrinkled his nose, too embarrassed to reply.

“But

you really shouldn’t run off on your own. Next time, please tell someone at home, or at least let Lessie know. The second she heard you’d snuck out rushed straight here from school.”

York hesitated, trying to hide his smirk, making a show of complaining.

“She’s just worried I’ll get her in trouble. Half the time, she can’t wait to get rid of me.”

Karen let out a gentle laugh. “Lessie hasn’t been back long, but mothers know their daughters–she cares about you, York, even if she doesn’t show it outright.”

“Really?” There was a flicker of hope in York’s eyes.

the eye. “So don’t run off alone when you’re upset. Lessie would be worried sick. And if

his head, scrubbing the

outgoing. I think it’d be

his book. I swear, I didn’t mean to. I was just messing around. I told him I’d replace it, but he kicked me out before I could

spoke faster. He couldn’t understand why Ivan

But Karen nodded, understanding.

passion is drawing, so he treasures anything related

your favorite toy by accident–wouldn’t

still. “So what should I

12-17

Chapter 144

and handed York a napkin

Karen wipe his hands and place the

with Ivan. And remember

voice soft and warm as sunlight on a winter afternoon–soothing and

pressed his lips together, starting to understand why Alessia hadn’t