A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“Happy New Year, Brendan.”

The door swung open, and Cole Whitley stepped inside, arms full of bags and boxes. Gone was his usual suit; today, he wore a simple, clean hoodie that gave him a boyish charm. It was the one Karen and Alessia Morton had picked out for him on a recent shopping trip–Karen had thought it would suit him.

It wasn’t from any fancy brand, but when Cole received it, he’d been momentarily taken aback, running his fingers over the fabric for a long while.

“There you are! Happy New Year!” Brendan Morton clapped him on the shoulder, grinning.

Brendan was also wearing new clothes Alessia had bought for him. He’d even dyed his hair and looked far younger than he had half a year ago–his face was healthy and bright, with no sign of the weary gloom he’d once carried.

“Why’d you bring so much? Aren’t those heavy?” Brendan reached out and took a few of the gift bags from Cole.

“They’re not heavy, just some little things–and some painting supplies for Ivan. Where’s Karen?” Cole asked, swapping his shoes for a pair of house slippers.

“Karen’s in the kitchen cooking your favorites. Lessie and Ivan went downstairs to grab some soy sauce.”

“Brendan, can you wash these veggies for me?” Karen’s voice called from the

kitchen.

“Cole’s here!” Brendan shouted in reply.

A moment later, Karen poked her head out.

it! Take a seat,

me help, Mrs. Morton.” Cole rolled up his

kitchen.

dear. Let your uncle

in, suddenly appearing

wearing the red hoodie Karen had bought her. She handed the soy sauce

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Chapter 231

smiled and slipped on an apron from

watched the scene unfold. Karen’s face beamed with satisfaction, while Brendan’s expression was a

a round of chess?”

that.” Brendan’s

Mae yet,” Karen said, waving a spoon as

the house was alive with warmth and laughter. Everyone was here, save for Liam

dish–a steaming soup. Ethan followed, setting

slipped out of the kitchen–Karen was chatting happily with Mae, while Cole sat quietly beside Alessia, letting her play with

felt cramped as it once did. Mae looked a bit shy at first, but as the meal wore on, she