Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase Novel

Chapter 199: Jarrod, walking quietly behind them, remained silent, scanning the room with unease. Maia's name wasn't on the official contestant list, and he had no idea what she might be planning.

Staying vigilant was always a good strategy. If Maia showed up, he would immediately escort her away from the competition venue, making sure she wouldn't be able to do anything to Rosanna.

However, Jarrod didn't spot Maia - he spotted Vince instead.

Vince, clad in a flawlessly tailored suit, exuded an air of sophistication as he strode toward Rosanna and her family, a bouquet of fresh flowers in hand. Rosanna's eyes widened as she saw him approach. A delighted smile tugged at her lips as she asked sweetly, "Vince, these flowers are stunning. Are they for me?"

Vince's gaze softened as he handed them to her. "A small token of encouragement for your success today."

While Vince's attention remained courteously on Rosanna, his eyes flickered restlessly, scanning the crowd with quiet intensity. Would Maia show up? Vince's mind raced with questions about Maia's intentions. Was she trying to prove to him that she was superior to Rosanna? Did she wish for him to see her in a whole new light?

Vince chalked it up to the unpredictable nature of women. A chuckle escaped him, but he quickly masked it.

At that moment, a few contestants approached Rosanna, their eyes alight with admiration as they took in the sight of Vince handing her the bouquet.

"Wow, that's so romantic! Look, blue roses! Rosanna, is he your boyfriend? He's so thoughtful!"

"Such a sweet gesture. He must have come just to surprise you!"

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"You two are a perfect match! With a lucky charm like that by your side, there's no way you won't dominate today!"

Rosanna's cheeks flushed, her heart swelling with pride as she replied, "He's my boyfriend, and we'll soon get engaged."

Her pride was almost palpable, her breath catching with the unexpected thrill of his gesture.

Vince's unexpected arrival threw Rosanna off balance. She never imagined that he'd show up, let alone with flowers in hand. Richard and Sandra, overhearing the exchange, exchanged delighted smiles, their faces lighting up with joy.

After Vince greeted them, he gestured toward the VIP section, inviting them to join him. He had secured the best seats in the front row, offering an unbeatable view of the event.

"Vince, you really didn't have to go to such lengths, but this is such a delightful surprise for our entire family," Sandra said, her affection for him growing with every word. She had been eager for Vince and Rosanna to settle on a wedding date, and today seemed like the perfect moment. She subtly nudged Richard, signaling him to say something.

Richard chuckled, patting Vince on the back. "Well done. Since you two are clearly getting along, how about we sit down after the competition and finally pick a wedding date?"

Vince nodded politely, his tone calm and respectful. "Of course. I'll go along with whatever plans you and Sandra decide."

Still, even as he answered, his eyes darted back to the crowd, scanning for any sign of Maia.

Suddenly, a voice cut through the murmurs, "Look! Who's that?" Jarrod whipped around, his face draining of color.

There, stepping into the room with an aura that demanded attention, was Maia. After putting on makeup and getting dressed up, she looked nothing like the Maia she usually was, but having grown up together, Jarrod recognized her instantly.

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