A Fake Heiress’s Guide to Love and Power novel Chapter 426

“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

something about it made Joyce uneasy.

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

“Helping you is helping myself, too,” Fortune answered, meeting her stare without a hint of embarrassment.

“Helping yourself?” Joyce echoed, puzzled.

“I admire your drive and ambition. I’d be glad to be a part of your network, to help you get ahead. In our circle, connections are everything.”

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

“That’s exactly where you’re wrong,” Fortune replied, eyes wide in exaggerated surprise. The expression was so over–the–top, Joyce couldn’t help but crack a smile for the first time that evening.

“Connections aren’t just about money or status. Betting on someone with potential can be far more rewarding than chasing after the already established. Take Alessia–she’s surrounded by big shots, but most of them got where they are because she mentored them herself. No one can come between those bonds. Honestly, I’m a little jealous.”

“But… aren’t there better candidates than me?” Joyce’s voice was

tentative, almost a whisper.

Fortune hesitated, rubbing his earlobe with a sheepish look. His ears.

turned a faint shade of red.

“Well, what can I say? I just want you.” He looked away, too shy to meet her eyes.

Joyce felt her own cheeks heat up and ducked her head, suddenly flustered.

Neither of them spoke, but the unspoken tension between them grew thick, nearly tangible.

Someone else, watching from across the room, felt jealousy surge

212

09:07

Chapter 426

inside–an urge to break up this maddeningly ambiguous moment.

“Fortune, how’s the photography coming along?” called the club president from the other side of the room.

“I–I should go,” Fortune stammered, making his exit.

“Okay…” Joyce’s reply was barely more than a whisper.

She didn’t dare look up as he walked away.

In her trembling hand, the business card she held was already crumpled beyond recognition, though she didn’t even notice.