A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“Oh please, like our friendship could ever fade?” Stella scoffed, rolling her eyes. “And guess what? Queenie’s transferring to our class this semester–she says she wants to tough it out with us through the college entrance exams.”

“She’s all right now?”

“The heart transplant was a huge success! Queenie’s healthier than ever, aren’t you, Lessie?” Stella tipped her chin up, looking far too proud.

“Of course!” Alessia grinned.

“But as soon as she got better, she started pulling all–nighters working on designs again. The moment I heard she was back in the hospital, my own heart nearly gave

out.”

Stella pressed a hand to her chest, remembering how her dad had been in the hospital with his chronic stomach issues at the same time. She’d been running herself ragged, so Alessia had gone to visit Queenie alone–and delivered Stella’s share of scolding on her behalf.

It had taken a miracle to snatch Queenie back from the brink, and now she was pushing her luck all over again.

“Oh, my darling Stella, I was wrong, okay?”

No one saw where Queenie came from; suddenly she popped up behind Stella, throwing her arms around her shoulders. Stella nearly whipped around and tossed her off on pure reflex, but Alessia was faster, catching Stella’s hand before she could move.

scared me to death!” Stella’s

for Pierce, who just watched the whole scene with obvious

no see,”

really

glossy and straight–exactly the image

this one style, and honestly, it wouldn’t suit your mother much. But there’s a new launch coming up soon, and one of the limited editions would

1/2

12-41

Queenie had overheard their

could. My mom’s birthday is coming up, and I could use something special to

“something special” started at five hundred

mean to interrupt you lovely ladies.” With Queenie’s promise secured,

Queenie, she reached out to check

I’ll be in bed by ten tonight.” Queenie knew there was no hiding anything from Alessia, so she

keep this up, you’ll burn through every heart you’ve got,” Stella scolded, jabbing Queenie’s forehead–though she couldn’t

arm, turning

eyes.