A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Eddie smiled softly, giving York’s hair a gentle ruffle.

“Admitting your mistakes takes more courage than most adults have, you know.”

With the matter settled, Alessia finally moved things along. “It’s getting late. Let’s get going.”

Eddie nodded, and soon the three of them–plus Rex, their loyal dog–were tucked into the back seat again. This time, everyone was calm and quiet, making for a smooth ride all the way to the art studio.

For York, it was his first visit, and everything seemed new and fascinating.

Having learned from last time, Ivan no longer clung to Alessia’s side. He was content to settle in and lose himself in his painting.

Eddie sat beside him, working on his own projects and chatting with Ivan every now and then. He didn’t pepper the boy with questions or crowd him, giving Ivan the room he needed to breathe.

Alessia took a seat in the lounge area, picking up the novel she hadn’t finished last time. York, however, looked longingly at the studio, clearly wanting to join the others, but Alessia held him back. So, boy and dog sat side by side next to her, both wearing the same bored, slightly sulky expression.

“Told you you’d be bored,” Alessia said, her tone making it clear: You insisted on coming, remember.

the table, one

long do we

day. If you’re bored, I can call Dawson to come

been losing her mind ever since she got back. She’s always yelling–drives me crazy.

give

Dawson and the others–always finding fault with something. But!” His eyes lit up suddenly, a

her bedroom door and warned her: if she goes nuts again, I’ll bring a few

14:42 D

Chapter 163

ruffled his hair again. If it were Max,

over there–why don’t you take Rex and

as he wasn’t being sent home, York was happy with anything. He hopped off his chair, grabbed a ball, and called for Rex to

the boy and the dog were still within sight, then returned to her book,

painting. Ivan only had to turn his head to spot York and Rex pressed up against the glass,