A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“It counts, of course it counts!” York’s voice rose with conviction. “If I give my word, I mean it! If Ivan comes to our school and anyone tries to mess with him, I’ll have his back. We’ll make sure no one bothers him.”

“Alright, you said it.” Alessia’s eyes sparkled with amusement, though her

expression remained cool and composed.

“I said it!” Poor York, stumbling right into the little trap Alessia had set, completely

unaware.

Alessia glanced over at Eddie, raising her eyebrows with a flash of confidence and just a hint of smugness.

Eddie chuckled, reaching up as if to ruffle her hair, but then hesitated, caught by some private thought, and let his hand drop inconspicuously.

Alessia didn’t notice. She was just about to say something when her phone rang. She looked at Eddie, then gestured toward York. Eddie nodded, and Alessia slipped out of the living room.

In the hallway, she answered the call.

“Granddad, craving something sweet again?”

voice was

lips, replaced by a

doing well. Honestly, I think it might be time to let go, but Cole… he won’t hear of it,” Xander said, his words trailing off into a weary sigh. “Anyway, you’d better come by as soon as you can. She’s stable for now, but nobody knows how

my way.” Alessia didn’t dare waste a second. She hung up and hurried back into the living

noticed the sudden pallor

over there right away. Can I ask you

on. How

ten minutes.” She turned to York

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Chapter 168

here, you two.”

front of them. “I have to leave for a bit–something urgent came up. So you’ll stay with Eddie

come with you?” York stared at her, eyes wide. Ivan didn’t say anything, but

heads a gentle squeeze. “I’m

herself, and even though they were still young, she always treated them with respect. Her

York was clearly disappointed, he knew better