Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase

Chapter 831:

The judges who had spoken in Maia’s favor shifted awkwardly.

“Ms. Cooper, aren’t you pushing this too far? I haven’t taken any bribes from anyone.”

“We’re simply doing our jobs. All we care about is the art itself.”

None of them spoke with real confidence. Their words sounded thin and uncertain.

Several judges exchanged nervous glances before turning to Maia.

“Ms. Watson, can you produce an actual photograph of your subject? If we could compare it to your painting, we’d be more certain of our decision.”

A second judge jumped in. “That’s right. Even if she’s no longer alive, surely someone kept her picture somewhere? If you can prove your work is a faithful portrait, of course, we’re willing to clear your name and declare you the winner!”

down, all they wanted was to

attention shifted right back to

travel across the judges before settling on Mariana, she

few

mocking smile tugging at her lips. “If I really

for words, and even Mariana, who had been

not take her long to recover. Flashing a frosty smile, she snapped, “I was only guessing. What’s wrong with that?

???? ???????? ?? ?????????⍿ⅽ??

denied her

disappointment flickering in her usually clear eyes. With a soft sigh, she said, “I honestly thought someone from the Cooper

Mariana, her voice rising as her eyebrows shot up. “Face it, Maia, nobody wins every time. The deal

as cold as ice sliced

raspy voice carried across the room. “I’ll speak

pin drop in the silence