Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase

Chapter 549:

It was obvious that she was referring to the fireworks show and the public congratulations from the Free company earlier that night. A shadow passed over Claudius’ face. Mariana always knew exactly where to hit where it hurt most.

“Mind your own business,” Claudius said, grabbing her wrist and tugging her away from the crowd.

He fixed her with a sharp glare, his voice low and edged with warning. “You’re not planning to cause a scene, are you?”

Claudius, unlike everyone else in the room, was fully aware of what had truly happened at the Cooper Group gala. And, more than anyone, he understood the real Mariana.

To the outside world, Mariana appeared to be the perfect, gentle daughter, cherished by her family. But behind closed doors, Mariana was nothing like the image she projected. She was fiercely stubborn and could throw a fit if things didn’t go her way. Worse yet, she had a long memory when it came to grudges, and she always made sure to settle the score.

Claudius hadn’t forgotten the chaos Mariana had caused after she lost Aurora Apparel Company to Maia in that infamous bet.

Mariana’s temper had exploded that night; she tore through her bedroom in a fit of rage, leaving the place looking like a disaster zone.

his tone. Leaning in, he whispered,

her; if anything, they amused her. Threats had never worked

are you so concerned about Maia?” With a cold sneer, Mariana pulled her arm free and snapped back, “Honestly, Claudius, if someone overheard you, they’d think I came here

only one meeting at the gala irritated her deeply. She couldn’t

g Ɐ

questioning what it was about Maia that had Claudius so completely under her

almost blurted it out but stopped herself. Instead, she flashed a sly smile and

my affairs, Mariana. This has nothing to

say. Just make sure

turned around and

the center stage of the banquet hall, drawing the

caught sight of Mariana coming over and couldn’t help