Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase

Chapter 826:

He stepped closer, each movement deliberate, as if to imprint the portrait into his soul.

Maia, sensing his unspoken need, pivoted the easel. The painting of his mother now faced him fully, her gentle features glowing with serenity. Her eyes, vivid and warm, seemed to pierce through time, locking onto his.

For a heartbeat, the world stilled. It was as if his mother had crossed the chasm between life and death to gaze upon him once more.

A sharp hiss escaped his lips. Dizziness crashed over him, a splitting headache clawing at his skull. His knees buckled, the room spinning as memories — long buried — surged to the surface.

Images flickered like an old film reel: a faceless woman holding his hand, her features now sharpening into focus. Her voice, soft and familiar, echoed in his mind.

“Sweetheart, slow down, or you’ll tumble.”

Another flash: “I’ve made your favorite noodle bowl, love.”

day, you must keep going, Chris. Look to the stars when you

doubt it.

overwhelming. His mother’s smiles, her gentle frowns, her laughter —

sweat beaded on his brow, dripping in heavy rivulets. His body trembled, curling inward as if to shield itself

through the haze, sharp with concern.

side, her hands

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started forward, her instinct to help warring with hesitation. Her eyes darted between Kiley and Chris, lips parting but no words came. She bit

gripped his temple, the other pressed into the floor, anchoring

doctor!” a voice

staff surged forward, urgency in their steps. “Do we need an

his hands. “Look at me, Chris. You’re not alone. I’m

in his