A Fake Heiress’s Guide to Love and Power novel Chapter 400

Things went much smoother once they reached York’s leg of the race. Though he and Ivan bickered and teased each other along the way, their teamwork was undeniable. York, having trained in both taekwondo and kickboxing, had the stamina and explosive energy to widen their lead again.

The final stretch belonged to Ivan.

To everyone’s surprise, Ivan darted forward with unexpected. speed–nothing like the quiet, bookish homebody they’d all expected from someone who spent most days sketching indoors.

Alessia figured this sudden burst of athleticism probably had everything to do with York dragging Ivan out for daily runs. After all, Ivan had caught a nasty cold when the seasons changed–a whole week in bed, feverish and weak, thanks to years of avoiding sunlight and exercise.

After Ivan finally recovered, York took it upon himself to whip him into shape, insisting on two laps around the park every afternoon before walking him home. It was easy to guess that Ivan had been picked for the relay team for exactly this reason.

These details, of course, Ivan had shyly confided to Alessia himself.

It warmed her heart to see Ivan open up and share bits of his life. He was such a sweet, gentle kid–anyone would feel protective of him. So Alessia always listened patiently, encouraging him to keep talking, letting him know he had her full attention.

Clearly, her gentle encouragement had paid off. Ivan now spoke with confidence, even around strangers, waving hello without hesitation or shyness.

When the relay ended, their team took the championship without question. The four of them collapsed into a joyful huddle, spinning in circles, their faces lit up with irrepressible grins.

Alessia seized the moment, snapping a few candid photos. Sensing her

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from a distance.

She lowered the camera and flashed them a big thumbs–up. The straightforward praise made their smiles grow even wider, their happiness overflowing.

With the relay over, the rest of the day’s competitions belonged to other teams. The three kids had to stay put with their classmates, playfully goofing off together while waiting for the next event.

Meanwhile, the atmosphere at Alessia’s end of the bleachers was decidedly more awkward. The two grown men–Max and Zane–were engaged in their usual verbal sparring. Whenever one tried to speak to Alessia, the other would jump in with a sarcastic jab, using her as the go–between for their banter.

Alessia resisted the urge to roll her eyes as the two of them volleyed snarky remarks back and forth, with her stuck in the middle.

“Do you two want me to give you space so you can hash this out?” she asked dryly. “Or should I ask the staff to clear the field so you can settle this with a wrestling match?”

That shut them up instantly.

“Honestly, how old are you? York and Ivan are more mature than you two.” “York? That little brat?” Max scoffed and shook his head, as if being compared to York was a personal insult.

Just then, York emerged from his class, looking none the worse for wear. The hundred–meter sprint had barely winded him; if anything, he seemed even more energized, standing tall on the field. He was already growing into his good looks, standing out among his peers,

He waved at Ivan, who sat curled up with his knees to his chest. Ivan’s wave was smaller, but no less genuine.

When Zane waved, though, York’s smile disappeared, and he turned away.

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Chapter 400

Zane looked hurt and glanced at Ivan for comfort. Ivan just smiled gently and patted his shoulder–it was all the reassurance he needed.

Soon, the four–hundred–meter race began. By coincidence–or fate–one of York’s competitors was Tammie.