A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Fortune watched Alessia’s calm, unruffled demeanor, and couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. Still, everything was unfolding exactly according to his plan.

“My clothes got dirty, so I took them off and asked the staff to bring me something clean,” he said, sticking to the story he’d prepared as he explained to Alessia, even as his mind drifted elsewhere.

Alessia nodded. “The attendant said the restroom upstairs was out of order, so she gave me a room key.”

Fortune feigned understanding. “Ah, right. I reserved this entire floor for tonight. Must have been a mix–up with the staff–they probably handed you the wrong key.”

Alessia didn’t bother with small talk. She didn’t tease him with, “Looks like Mr. Thorne is ready to rule the Thorne family empire–spending big, I see.”

Her composure was unexpected, and Fortune found himself a little surprised, but he played along.

“I could never compare to you, Miss Morton. I’m just riding on the family’s coattails. You, on the other hand–so young, and already running several successful companies. My father’s always going on about you, says he wishes I had half your talent.”

Alessia simply smiled and dropped into a chair beside the TV stand, not offering a response.

“I hear some of the oldest firms are eager to partner with you. The Thorne Group may need to rely on Miss Morton’s guidance in the future.”

“If the Thorne family plans to do honest business, there’ll be plenty of opportunities for us to work together,” Alessia replied coolly.

face darken. “What’s that supposed

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Chapter 437

ask you the same thing, Mr. Thorne. What’s

charade for?”

Fortune could drop the

did you figure it out? Was it Joyce who tipped you off?” he asked, sitting

yellow glow of the lamp cast across the

it obvious?” Alessia said. “Even if I hadn’t asked to use

another way to get me up

Morton, you really are sharp.” Fortune offered her

nail on the head. The plan had been for the champagne to spill on Alessia, but when something went awry, he’d simply improvised. The details didn’t matter–as long as he got what he wanted in

have to admit, your courage is impressive–walking straight into the lion’s den.

your endgame?” Alessia rested her hands on her knees, her voice steady, almost casual, as if she were the one

Thorne Group, but a few of my relatives are…less than enthusiastic. Here’s my proposal: we work together. You help me secure my place as heir, and I’ll merge my

have an appetite. Eyeing A&C Entertainment

grew up together, everyone says your bond is unbreakable–but has he ever offered you a share in his company? He’s been running the Whitley Group for years,