A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

“I don’t think so. I don’t really fit in at places like this.” Joyce kept her head down, desperate to escape, already wishing she could shed these borrowed clothes that didn’t feel like her at all.

“Don’t worry about it,” Fortune replied, giving her shoulder a reassuring pat. “It’s just a casual dinner for the younger crowd–nothing too formal. Just relax, okay? Besides, you’ve got me.”

Only then did Joyce realize how close they were standing. She instinctively stepped away, putting some distance between them.

Fortune didn’t seem bothered; he simply withdrew his hand and smiled gently, as if nothing had happened.

“If you’re nervous, you can ask Alessia to come and keep you company. She’s used to these kinds of events, and you know her well. The first time is always a bit overwhelming, but having a friendly face there makes everything easier.”

He spoke lightly, then suddenly turned to her, hands spread in a gesture of helplessness.

“But maybe don’t mention that I’m the one hosting, alright? She and I… well, you know. There’s some awkward history.”

Joyce didn’t respond, so Fortune continued, his tone soft and persuasive.

“Honestly, once you’re out in the real world, you’ll probably have to attend these sorts of dinners sooner or later. Think of it as practice. Everyone invited tonight is either wealthy or well–connected–if you play your cards right, you might land an internship even better than Quantum Flux. That could mean more opportunities after graduation. Really, there’s nothing to lose here. Why not give it a try?”

His words flowed like honey, tempting and sly–like the serpent coaxing Eve to take a bite of the forbidden fruit.

He sounded as if he had nothing but her best interests at heart, but

1/3

09:07

Chapter 426

it made Joyce

are you helping me? Is it because of Lessie?” Joyce searched his eyes, trying to see through him, but his gaze was calm

you is helping myself, too,” Fortune answered, meeting her stare without a hint

yourself?” Joyce echoed,

drive and ambition. I’d be glad to be a part of your network, to help you get ahead.

kind of connection am I? I don’t have money or a fancy background.” Joyce gave a self–deprecating

The expression was so over–the–top,

established. Take Alessia–she’s surrounded by big shots, but most of them got where

aren’t there better candidates than me?” Joyce’s voice

tentative, almost a whisper.

rubbing his earlobe with a sheepish

faint

you.” He looked away, too shy to

heat up and ducked her head,