A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Professor Lane’s eyes sparkled, as if he could already see the next Eddie emerging before him.

“The lines are a bit unpolished, but with a stronger foundation, the work would really shine.”

Charlie nodded, turning to Alessia. “Professor Lane is a leading figure in the art world–if he says so, what do you think?”

“Berlington Elementary is the kind of place parents will do anything to get their kids into. There’s a reason for its reputation.”

“Alright, Professor Lane, could you let Mr. Zimmerman know to help him with the enrollment paperwork, and maybe show him around the classrooms?”

“I’ll go say

bi to my brother first.”

“Go ahead. And when you’ve got time, come by for tea–don’t wait until you need something to remember you still know a Mr. Linden.”

Charlie was clearly teasing, but Alessia took it in stride, smiling as she responded. After a few more words, she followed Professor Lane out of the room.

Charlie looked at the painting and nodded in genuine appreciation. “That girl really has an eye for talent. There may be plenty of prodigies these days, but it’s not so easy to find the real ones–and somehow, they all end up around her.”

a look of approval, he carefully placed the painting

is as far as I can go with you today,” Alessia saíd, crouching down to meet Ivan’s eyes. “You’ll have to handle the rest on your own,

and he gripped the straps of his backpack tightly. Still,

Alessia’s gaze as she laid a gentle hand on his head. “York will pick you

you.

tapping his smartwatch to show her

it.

kid,” Alessia said, ruffling his hair before turning to Mr. Zimmerman. “Thank you

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Chapter 184

at all, it’s my pleasure,” Mr.

themselves–it was a kind of confidence you didn’t see every day. If she didn’t know better, she’d have thought she was Alessia’s assistant rather than the other

She’d planned to pick up Mae right away, but Mae said she needed

just

for now?” Mr. Zimmerman asked. Both Ivan and York had transferred mid–year,

natural their seats ended up side by

messy desk next to his own, then

the teacher will introduce you to everyone. Do you think you’ll be okay on your own