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!”

they

attention shifted right back

herself for this moment. Letting her gaze travel across the judges before settling on Mariana, she said, “The Cooper family’s reaction just now says

Those few words shattered the stalemate and tipped the balance

at her lips. “If I really missed the mark, how did

The judges were at a loss for words,

smile, she snapped, “I was only

???? ???????? ?? ?????????⍿ⅽ??

she denied

in her usually clear eyes. With a soft sigh, she said, “I honestly thought someone

as her eyebrows shot up. “Face it, Maia, nobody wins

voice as cold as ice

stern face and raspy voice carried across the room.

a pin drop in the silence