Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase

Chapter 817:

A flash of scorn flickered in her gaze as her lips twisted into a taunting grin. “Does anyone see Maia? Maybe she finally lost her nerve.”

The sting in her words didn’t go unnoticed. Reporters who caught her remark looked at one another in surprise, unsure how to respond.

“Honestly, where did Maia disappear to?” someone said.

“Is she hiding because she’s afraid to show her face?” another voice asked, trying to stifle a laugh.

“If she bailed at the last second, she’s never going to live it down,” someone else added.

Suddenly, Grover’s voice boomed over the speakers, formal and commanding as ever. “Attention, please. The painting contest is about to begin. Mariana Cooper, kindly make your way to the exhibition hall at once, or you’ll be disqualified.”

The announcement rippled through the audience, spreading unease. People glanced around, whispering among themselves. They had kept a close watch on the main entrance all morning, yet not a single person recalled seeing Maia arrive.

was looking? Did anybody spot her?”

sneaked in another

settled in, the huge screen overhead

their attention to the poised

her canvas, perfectly composed. Her face betrayed no nerves. Every movement she made seemed elegant, almost regal — like a figure from an old portrait, carrying herself

ready, awaiting what would

????? ???? ??

rose up among the crowd and reporters.

blurted out, “She’s got the kind of charm you’d

voice chimed in, “People always say painting transforms a person. Maia looks

pull off that kind of presence. She fits

before, everyone had seemed eager to witness Maia stumble. The mood shifted in a heartbeat, and suddenly, she had gained an