Ste 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 nced 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 exined 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, Ste 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 nning to officially wee 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 softugh. “You? Stirring up trouble?”
Ste rubbed her nose, slightly embarrassed. “Thatst time at the Thornes‘ party was honestly an ident. All I did was air out some of Hugo’s dirtyundry 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 yboy and azy 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 Ste always stepped in–and by now, everyone at school knew Ste 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 Ste 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 Ste in front of all the guests. But Ste wasn’t exactly helpless. Even in her evening gown, she flipped him t on his back. The room fell silent; Patriarch Thorne’s face went nearly purple.
15-38
The birthday party was a disaster, and Hugo was promptly shipped off overseas <b>by </b>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 <i>to </i>save him, he was left paralyzed from the waist down.
When Ste heard the full story, sheughed till she cried. Needless to say, the Tates and Thornes quietly dropped any ns for an engagement between Alessia and Hugo.
“He really got what wasing to him,” Ste said, grinning. “Though I can’t help but think it was all a little too convenient–if I had to guess, I’d say it reeks of something that crazy eldest Tate son would pull.”
At that, Alessia nced up at her friend. Ste realized she’d said too much and quickly mimed zipping her lips shut.
“Speaking of Max,” she continued, “are the Tate siblingsing back for this dinner?”
Alessia answered honestly. “No idea.”
“Wait, so since you left the Tates, they haven’t tried to contact you at all?”
Alessia shook her head, her expression calm.
Ste clicked her tongue in disapproval. “Figures. Cold–blooded, everyst one of them.”
Alessia just smiled faintly, offering noment.
“And what about that Ilea–wait, what’s her name again?”
“Ileana,” Alessia supplied.
“Right!” Ste snapped her fingers. “Heard about that mess too. Doesn’t sound like a peach. Rumor is she’s transferring into our ss. You’ve met her–should we be worried?”
“Don’t stress. She’s not worth the trouble.”
Ste 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.
15.20