A Fake Heiress’s Guide to Love and Power novel Chapter 30

Stella nodded approvingly. "That's just like you—not interested in anyone without real ability. And if Mr. Dawson actually agreed to take him on as a student, you know he must be talented."

She glanced at Alessia. "So, how's it going between you two? If things aren't working out, don't force yourself. It's not like you have nowhere else to go."

Alessia shook her head, losing track of how many times she'd already explained this. Still, her tone was patient, never once betraying any irritation at her friend's concern.

The conversation paused for a moment. Then, as if struck by a sudden thought, Stella crossed her long legs and leaned in, eyes keenly focused on Alessia.

"I just got an invitation from the Tates. It's for some big family reunion dinner—seems like they're planning to officially welcome their long-lost daughter. Any idea what you're going to do? Or should I go stir up some trouble for you?"

Alessia let out a soft laugh. "You? Stirring up trouble?"

Stella rubbed her nose, slightly embarrassed. "That last time at the Thornes' party was honestly an accident. All I did was air out some of Hugo's dirty laundry from school—how could I have guessed he'd lose his cool like that?"

She rolled her eyes. "A grown man, can't out-argue me, can't out-fight me—pathetic."

Truth be told, the whole fiasco had started because of Alessia.

Hugo Thorne was notorious at their school for being a playboy and a lazy troublemaker, constantly pestering Alessia. The problem was, the Tates and the Thornes did business together, so Alessia couldn't just cut ties openly. That's why Stella always stepped in—and by now, everyone at school knew Stella and Hugo couldn't stand each other.

After weeks of tension, the Thornes threw a birthday party for their patriarch. The Tates, hoping to push Alessia and Hugo together, made sure both of them were there. That's when Stella revealed footage of Hugo bullying students from less wealthy families—right there at the party.

No one expected Hugo to explode the way he did, hurling insults and even trying to hit Stella in front of all the guests. But Stella wasn't exactly helpless. Even in her evening gown, she flipped him flat on his back. The room fell silent; Patriarch Thorne's face went nearly purple.

The birthday party was a disaster, and Hugo was promptly shipped off overseas by his family, left to fend for himself. On his very first night abroad, he ran into local troublemakers and nearly lost his life. Though they managed to save him, he was left paralyzed from the waist down.

Alessia just smiled faintly, offering no comment.

"And what about that Ilea—wait, what's her name again?"

"Ileana," Alessia supplied.

"Right!" Stella snapped her fingers. "Heard about that mess too. Doesn't sound like a peach. Rumor is she's transferring into our class. You've met her—should we be worried?"

"Don't stress. She's not worth the trouble."

Stella had no reason to doubt Alessia's confidence. Sensing her friend wasn't interested in discussing it further, she checked the time, then whisked Alessia out for dinner. By the time they returned, the bar was already open for business.