A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

The sound of children laughing and playing outside drifted in through the window, prompting Xander to compose himself and nod repeatedly.

“Alright, alright! Six and I made some sachets to help everyone sleep better and feel less tired. Hang them by your family’s beds when you get home.”

Xander’s sachets were nothing like anyone else’s. They carried no sharp, artificial scent, nor were they stuffed with leftover scraps. He used only the finest herbs, so the fragrance lingered longer and the effects were much better.

In years past, he’d only ever made them for his own family–this was the first time he’d offered them to anyone else.

He patted Alessia’s hand, his voice full of affection for the younger generation.

“It’s cold out here. Let’s go inside.”

“Of course.” Alessia nodded, gently supporting Xander as they headed indoors.

“Oh, I also made something to help Zachary with his energy. Funny, I haven’t seen him around.”

“He said he’ll come visit you tomorrow.”

“That boy–always so considerate.” Xander immediately understood what Zachary was thinking.

Just as everyone was getting ready to sit down for dinner, the door creaked open and someone stepped inside.

“Mr. Dawson.” The familiar voice echoed through the small courtyard, startling everyone. After a moment’s hesitation, Cole went to see who it was.

He returned a moment later, followed by a man wearing gold–rimmed glasses.

to his feet, a

been so long–did you forget

nerve, saying it’s been so long. I was starting to think

if to see whether the years had worn

1/3

12:38

Chapter 253

that?”

for

“So why’d he leave?”

him and took him

nodded, still a little confused but not pressing

could you grab another set of plates

Six jumped up and

all these years? You only call every few weeks, and even after coming back to the States for months, you still didn’t come see

the table, and Six soon brought

I got back, there was too much to sort out. I kept having to fly

a family dinner?” Alessia

like the reserved man he’d been at

found an excuse to slip out early. When I saw I still had time, I thought I’d come wish Mr. Dawson a happy New Year. Didn’t expect

quick grin, which was met with a warm smile. Six gave him a sidelong glance, but stayed quiet, focusing