Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase

Chapter 999:

Seizing the pause in conversation, Hurst cleared his throat and said, “Please don’t take it the wrong way, Ms. Watson. My daughter’s been holding on to the memory of her mother for years. Melanie was just a child when my wife passed. It’s been a long road for her to…”

“Heal.” With a slight tilt of his head, Hurst added, “It’s not just your eyes… even your smile carries a trace of her.”

Maia turned to Melanie again, this time with something gentler in her expression — an understanding that ran deeper than before.

Maia had never known the comfort of growing up with her biological parents, yet she understood the ache that came with losing someone dear. Even though the Cooper Group stood on the other side of the fence, she had learned not to judge its people as a collective.

Chris and Zoey weren’t the only ones who had shown her kindness — Hurst had extended his hand more than once as well. Sure, his daughter and Ethan had clashed before, but those were the usual arguments children often outgrow. These days, Melanie and Ethan seemed to be getting along just fine.

Melanie stole a glance at Hurst before turning back with a

pause followed, then Maia nodded with a smile and said, “Of course. If ever you’re missing your mom, you’re welcome to come to me. I won’t turn you away. But instead of anything formal,

point, her affection for

fresh tales at g αℓ ησ ν𝒆

on to his daughter’s little plan. She had been trying to find reasons to be around Maia more often. A quiet smile tugged at his lips as he glanced Melanie’s way, silently

Maia. “This one knows how to keep things lively. Don’t be surprised if we drop by more often. Part of it is to check

anything turn up?” Maia asked, meeting Hurst’s eyes with calm curiosity. Off to the side, Pattie subtly leaned in, curious about what Hurst, a member of the Cooper family,

“There’s a

rushed to clarify. “Alright, alright… don’t give me that look. Since Kolton took charge of Cooper Group, he’s been tightening his grip — swallowing up the other branches one by one. Mine’s stayed afloat because we handle overseas dealings and the liquor business. He either ignores us or looks down on what we do. That distance is what’s kept us out