A Fake Heiress’s Guide to Love and Power novel Chapter 176

“I haven’t actually told her yet, but you don’t need to worry about her work ethic. She’s incredibly quick and efficient…”

“That’s wonderful!” Karen cut Alessia off, clapping her hands in delight.

“Your dad and I have been discussing where on earth we could find someone to help. The café’s been so busy, I barely have time to come home and cook for you all anymore. Poor Zachary’s been picking up the slack. You two are in your senior year–this is such a critical time–and Ivan’s still growing. If he doesn’t get proper nutrition, we could have a problem.”

“Exactly. The interviews lately haven’t gone well at all, so we’ve been racking our brains. If you’re willing to vouch for someone, Lessie, then we know she’s got to be solid,” Brendan chimed in, nodding in agreement.

At this point, anyone who still doubted Alessia’s judgment would have to be out of their minds.

“But you said you haven’t asked her yet. Are you sure she’d be willing?”

“I’ll go out and talk to her now.”

“Now? It’s so late. Let Zachary drive you, or your dad can go with you. It’s not safe for a girl to be out alone at night.”

“No need, I’ve already called a friend. She’s here now, actually–just outside. No

worries.”

“No, I really think I should walk down with you,” Brendan insisted, concern in his voice. Karen quickly agreed.

Alessia sighed inwardly, but faced with their combined insistence, she nodded her

agreement.

When the three of them stepped outside, they found Stella waiting by her motorcycle. Stella looked a bit surprised to see the small entourage, quickly climbing off her bike, helmet still in hand–clearly meant for Alessia.

“This is Stella, my best friend,” Alessia announced confidently, standing beside her

as she introduced her to the Mortons.

“Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. Morton.” For once, Stella seemed a little nervous, worried her earlier laid–back attitude might have left the wrong impression.

“Evening, dear. I have to say, a young woman on a motorcycle is pretty impressive,”

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Chapter 126

Karen said warmly, Immediately picking up on Stella’s nerves and trying to put her

at ease.

Stella relaxed, a bit embarrassed, scratching her ear sheepishly.

“She’s right–just be careful, you two. And when you have time, come by for dinner. I know my way around the kitchen, and so does Karen. You should stay for a real meal sometime.”

“Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Morton, I’d love that.”

“We’ll head off, then,” Alessia said, checking her watch and taking the helmet from Stella.

“Alright–just let us know when you’re back,” Brendan reminded them, worry still etched on his face.

The girls promised they would, urging Brendan and Karen to head back inside before finally setting off.

“Lessie, do you think your parents see me as some kind of delinquent now?” Stella asked as they rode away.

Alessia chuckled. “What’s this? The fearless Stella, worried about making a bad first impression?”

“It’s different with your parents. If it were anyone else, I wouldn’t care–I’d just brush it off. But with them… maybe I should try to look a little less rough next time?”

Riding behind Alessia, Stella couldn’t see the bright smile spreading across her friend’s face beneath her helmet.

“No need.”

“What?” Stella called over the wind and the roar of the engine, unable to make out the words.

They stopped at a red light, and Stella leaned closer. “What did you say?”

my friend “I said, you don’t need to change a thing! Just be yourself. Anyone who’s doesn’t need to put on a show for anyone else–not even my parents. Right now, you’re honestly the coolest, and I’m proud to call you my friend!”

Beneath her helmet, Stella’s ears burned red. She managed a soft “mm,” her smile betraying a rare, bashful shyness that was utterly adorable.