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.

really want to try your mom’s cooking,” Stella said, a touch of

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

bring a car with four

of

Alessia’s hair and the two of them said their goodbyes, heading out

pang they couldn’t quite name. But as friends, there was

1/3

got Alessia by his side.” Pierce said

together. “I should get going, too. See you next

she left, then turned to join the friends who’d been waiting for him. “Is it true Queenie Windsor’s coming back?” someone asked as

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

our last semester,” Cole said, well aware of the close bond between

made your favorite crispy

are

times

in the future,” Cole

away their sadness and longing, determined to keep moving forward. Life didn’t stop for heartache; they were

still lingering. Maybe that’s what made the present

Because we don’t want any more regrets, we throw ourselves into every moment, trying