The Double ( or More ?) Life of The Fake Heiress

James caught Zach’s almost predatory glare and cleared his throat as he stood up, offering a timely explanation, “Your brother didn’t mean any harm, really.”

Zach, forced to maintain a smile despite feeling wronged, was wordless. Jerk. Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

Mirabella glanced at James with a half–smirk.

James, his gaze cool and composed, didn’t reply. Instead, he walked over to a nearby cabinet, pulled open a drawer, and retrieved two books. “Here, these are for you.”

Mirabella raised an eyebrow, her gaze dropping to the books being handed to her, the titles emblazoned in French. Translated, they read: Clinical Psychology.

She reached out to accept the books, a set of two volumes, untranslated French editions. Somewhat surprised, she looked up. “How did you know I’ve been into this subject lately?”

“I heard you mention it last time,” James‘ voice was calm and detached, his tall figure exuding an air of effortless elegance and nobility. Recalling a conversation they had during a car ride from the library, Mirabella hadn’t given it much thought at the time. “These volumes are hard to come by. Thanks.”

James watched her, his lips barely parting. “You’re welcome.”

Zach, who suddenly felt like he had become invisible on the couch, quickly got up and asked, “What books?”

Mirabella tilted her head and lifted the books so he could see the covers. Upon seeing the French titles, Zach’s expression instantly crumpled. Damn, they were totally incomprehensible.

Though curious about the books‘ contents, Zach pretended to understand in the presence of James and said dismissively, “Just French stuff, huh? Next time, I’ll bring you a whole pile of these.”

Mirabella simply glanced at him. “Zach, I think it’s better if you don’t talk.”

Feeling snubbed by his sister, Zach averted his eyes, and as he hung his head, he caught sight of the slippers on his sister’s feet, then looked at James‘ slippers. They were identical pairs, different colors.

He then glanced at his own feet, and his mind buzzed loudly. After a moment, he looked up at James, his eyes sharpening like knives. This bastard definitely has designs on my sister!‘

James, sensing the hostility, looked up, puzzled.

Zach glared fiercely at James before turning to his sister. “Mira, let’s switch shoes.”

Mirabella was stunned, completely baffled. What was Zach on about now?

“Come on, you wear mine,” Zach said seriously as if fearing she wouldn’t comply. He took off his shoes and placed them in front of her. If some jerk wanted to take advantage of his Mira, they’d have to get past him first!

Mirabella couldn’t comprehend Zach’s actions. Despite his insistence, Mirabella eventually agreed to swap her slippers.

Girls‘ shoes were naturally petite and delicate. Watching Zach forcefully squeeze into them with his heels still hanging off the edge, Mirabella massaged her temples. This was just too much to watch.

Though his feet were uncomfortable, Zach felt a sense of satisfaction. He finally seemed content, lifting his chin proudly and giving James a defiant look.

James‘ gaze briefly swept over the pink slippers on Zach’s feet, and the corner of his mouth twitched involuntarily.