Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase

Chapter 800:

A calm smile played on Maia’s lips as she responded in a composed, steady tone, “I haven’t made my decision yet. When I do, I’ll let you know.”

Shadows flickered in Kiley’s eyes, her mouth curling into a vague, unreadable smile. “No rush,” she replied, her voice as smooth and detached as ever. Barely above a whisper, her words drifted through the air. Something cold and razor-sharp lurked behind that poised exterior, enough to unsettle everyone listening.

Raegan let out a dismissive snort, a smirk twisting her features. “You’re acting like the trophy’s already yours, Maia.”

Everything she’d learned about Mariana had come straight from Kiley. Despite being so young, Mariana’s collection of national accolades spoke for itself. Even the Cooper family treated her as the undisputed heir to their artistic legacy.

Raegan, being close to Kiley, could sense her friend’s inner turmoil, no matter how placid she tried to appear. One thing had become clear: anyone who crossed Kiley never had luck on their side. That thought made Raegan arch an eyebrow, disdain flickering in her gaze.

Chris, standing quietly beside Maia, shot Raegan a glance so brief it almost went unnoticed.

bubbled up, fragments of hushed conversation

confident? Does she seriously

setting like this, claiming

She looks like she thinks victory is guaranteed. Who told her

in, “Looks to me like she’s just saving face — stalling for time because

squarely at

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steady

through the room seemed to put Mariana in a better mood. She didn’t hesitate to fire off a cutting remark. “Oh, Maia, drop

up with something clever? You talk big,

“You do remember I’ve won before, haven’t I? The one who was defeated by

lodged in her chest. Rage flickered in her eyes as she struggled to keep her