A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Chapter 245

Before they knew it, finals week had arrived. The festive buzz of the holidays was thickening on the streets, while groups of students, exams finally behind them, drifted out of the academic buildings in twos and threes.

After months of navigating the cutthroat world of business, walking side by side through campus felt like a rare moment of calm for Alessia and Cole.

Around them, classmates debated where to go to celebrate, some still comparing answers, the kind of ordinary day–to–day scene they’d almost forgotten existed. For Alessia and Cole, it all felt strangely surreal, like coming back to a world they’d left behind.

“Lessie!” Stella suddenly popped up behind them, Pierce trailing close behind.

“Stella.”

“Cole.” Pierce gave him a quick pat on the shoulder, his greeting brief as always.

Cole smiled at him. “How’d the exams go?”

“At least my parents won’t be cutting off my allowance anytime soon,” Pierce replied, grinning.

Some things never changed–Pierce was still as carefree as ever.

“Are you guys heading home? Want to grab dinner together?” Stella asked.

Alessia and Cole shook their heads in perfect sync. Karen had already called earlier, insisting they come straight home for dinner after exams.

cooking,” Stella said, a touch of envy

and don’t forget about tomorrow,” Stella added. “I’ll come pick you

car with four wheels this

dream of

them said

pang they

1/3

got Alessia by

“I should get

waiting for him. “Is

eyes shining with a hint of anticipation. “She’s returning for an exhibition, and she’s transferring to our class next semester.” The last time Alessia had seen Queenie was over the summer, and now–just like that–winter break was already upon

said,

“Mom said she made your favorite crispy

what are we waiting

laughed. “How many times does that make this

more in the future,” Cole replied with a

and longing, determined to keep moving forward. Life didn’t stop for heartache; they were all just trying

memories trailing behind, the past’s regrets still lingering. Maybe that’s what made the present so

want any more regrets, we throw ourselves into every moment,