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.

at Hurst before turning back with a bright grin. “Would it be okay if I visited

turn you away. But instead of anything formal, I’d rather you call

point, her affection for Maia had grown even

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be around Maia more often. A quiet smile tugged at his lips as he glanced Melanie’s

the conversation every time wasn’t something he planned to allow. Stepping forward, Hurst rested a hand gently on Melanie’s head before turning to 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 in on

to the side, Pattie subtly leaned in, curious about what Hurst, a member of the Cooper family,

swept the room before he lowered his tone. “There’s a strong chance Kolton is behind

realization crossed his face before Hurst cleared his throat and 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