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.

rose to his feet, a note of

so long–did you

some nerve, saying it’s been so long. I was starting to think you’d forgotten all

see whether the years had worn him down or if he’d

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Chapter 253

who’s that?”

here for a while

“So why’d he leave?”

found him and took

still a little

grab another set of plates and

jumped up

all these years? You only call every few weeks, and even after coming back to the States for

the table, and Six

having to fly back to handle paperwork. The moment I got a break, I came right over–and just in time

dinner?” Alessia

expression gentle now, nothing like the reserved man he’d been at the

people. I found an excuse to slip out early. When I saw I still had

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