Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase Novel

Chapter 222: "I just…" Vince found himself struggling for words.

Before he could respond, Maia cut him off. "Is it really so hard to be faithful to one person? You want everything, and it's honestly disgusting."

Vince's fists clenched, his knuckles paling, his eyes filled with a storm of emotions. Disgusting? Was that really how she viewed him?

He fought to keep his temper in check. "Maia, you know the engagement with Rosanna was arranged by our families. It wasn't something I chose. You also know that being born into money means we don't get to call all the shots." Maia's lips twisted into a wry smile. Hearing this from Vince made her want to laugh. Four years ago, when Rosanna had set her up for stealing Radiant Jewels' exclusive collection, Vince had sided with Rosanna. Wasn't that a decision in itself? Now, as he said these things, did he really expect her to buy it?

She stayed quiet, giving him nothing but a cold smile.

Vince's eyes locked onto Maia's. A breeze stirred the leaves, bringing with it a sharp chill. His usual arrogance faded, and his voice softened.

"Maia, if it weren't for what happened four years ago, you'd be my wife by now. I know I've wronged you, and I want to make things right. Please, can you give me another shot?"

The Maia from before might have been touched by his words. But now, she saw right through Vince's feeble act. She no longer felt anything for him, and hearing him speak only caused her pain.

It hurt to remember that she had once loved such a deceitful man.

Maia stared at him without emotion, her face firm. "Vince, do you know what the best way to make it up to me is? It's to never show up in front of me again."

With that, she turned to leave.

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But in the next instant, he grabbed her wrist.

Before she could react, he yanked her roughly into his arms.

Maia was taken aback.

She lifted her gaze and found Vince staring at her with intense eyes.

His voice was tight, as if struggling to get the words out. "Maia, I don't believe you feel nothing for me."

Vince leaned in close to her ear, his breath hot against her skin. "I remember you once said you'd love only me forever…"

Maia narrowed her eyes and lifted her hand.

Then, a sharp slap cracked across Vince's face.

Vince stood frozen, shocked that she had struck him so fiercely. A bright red handprint, each finger clearly outlined, bloomed on his cheek.

"I must've been blind before," Maia said coldly, shoving the stunned Vince aside. She shot him a warning, "Lay a finger on me again, and it won't just be your face taking the hit!"

Without sparing him another glance, she spun around and walked away.

Not far off, hidden behind a tree, a paparazzo quickly snapped a photo.

Maia caught a taxi and headed home.

The moment she walked in, she spotted Chris sitting in the living room, waiting for her.

The dining table was packed with all kinds of mouth-watering dishes. Chris wore a simple white shirt, the top buttons undone, his sleeves casually rolled up.

His strong collarbone and the lines of his muscles stood out clearly. He pulled out a chair for her and said, "Tonight, I'm the chef. Come and see if my cooking's up to scratch."

He didn't say much, but everything he did felt like a quiet celebration of Maia's victorious return.

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