A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

The day of the sports festival arrived sooner than expected, and Alessia was the only one from the Morton family who attended.

It wasn’t that the others didn’t want to come; the school had simply limited each child to one or two guests. With kids from other schools also competing, too many people would only increase the risk of chaos or accidents.

When Alessia and Cole brought Ivan to the gymnasium, they ran into Max and York at the entrance.

“Alessia!”

Hearing her name, Alessia turned just in time to see York barreling toward her. Thankfully, she worked out regularly–her reflexes were quick and her arms strong–so she caught York without missing a beat, steady on her feet.

“You’re here early,” Max remarked, strolling over with an easy gait.

He gave Cole a sidelong glance. Cole just offered a quick smile and a nod, his version of a greeting.

Max turned his attention back to Alessia. “Didn’t expect to see you at the sports festival.”

“Surprised, are you?” Alessia arched an eyebrow, her meaning plain.

She was about to say more, but York was already tugging at her sleeve, clearly unable to contain his excitement. “Come on, Alessia! Let me show you our classroom, Ivan’s drawing is up on the wall–it looks amazing!” He sounded so proud, as if he’d drawn it himself.

you?” Alessia teased, ruffling

um, mine…” York frowned, searching for the

the speech contest,” Ivan piped up, his voice

1/3

10:05

Chapter

My drawing’s up because each class picked one student, and when I won, the teacher asked if it could go on

York grinned, his earlier embarrassment

smile as the two boys, one on each side, pulled her along. They toured

trailing behind, quietly

commented, pointedly. The

replied smoothly. “If you’re not hovering over the factory, you

just how sincere you are about working together,” Max

on the surface,

barb.

back there?” Alessia called over her shoulder, eyeing them with suspicion.