Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase Novel

Chapter 291: "The more secretive he is, the more extraordinary he must be! He's definitely a top-tier figure who doesn't want to reveal his identity."

"Precisely! True greatness cloaks itself in humility. Maia's subtle deflection deserves applause!"

Meanwhile, Pattie stormed through the crowd, her face flushed with indignation as she intercepted Maia and planted herself directly in her path.

With arms firmly crossed and her lower lip jutting out, Pattie confronted her, "Maia, you got married - actually married - and didn't breathe a word of it to me? Do you even consider me a friend?" Maia met Pattie's accusatory gaze with gentle eyes. "Pattie, it's not what you think. The situation is… complicated. I can explain everything."

"Spare me the stories. Complicated? What complexity could possibly exist? Marriage is simply two people reaching an agreement and signing a certificate. Never mind your excuses. Just arrange for me to meet this mystery husband today, and we'll consider the slate wiped clean," Pattie declared, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Maia hadn't intended to keep her closest friend in the dark forever. Since she'd already decided to acknowledge the marriage publicly, she was prepared for this conversation.

Besides, she needed Pattie's support to install Chris as Cooper Group's head, so she nodded in acquiescence. "It's too late this evening. He's likely already retired for the night. I promise to arrange a meeting soon."

"Now that's more reasonable!" Pattie's expression transformed instantly, a ray of sunshine breaking through storm clouds.

Later that evening, Maia stepped into the warmth of her living room and found Chris lounging on the sofa, dressed in a light gray casual suit that accentuated his relaxed confidence.

He lazily swirled a crystal wine glass between his fingers, satisfaction emanating from his posture.

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An unopened bottle of champagne waited ceremoniously on the coffee table.

Maia drifted closer, her voice laced with curiosity. "Mr. Cooper, what has you looking so thoroughly pleased with yourself?"

Chris let out a wry smirk. "Because… someone mentioned she only values gifts from her husband."

Earlier that night, Chris had also tuned into the live stream of the engagement party. He hadn't anticipated that Maia would publicly declare her marital status. This meant she had finally accepted the fact that he was her husband.

Taken aback for a moment, Maia realized Chris had watched the stream too. A blush of embarrassment warmed her cheeks, leaving her momentarily speechless.

Chris rose, smoothly poured a glass of champagne for Maia, and filled another for himself before offering it to her. He was well aware of Maia's elevated status and knew she was no stranger to sophistication.

He had considered presenting her with luxurious jewelry, but he knew that could inadvertently expose his own background - something he wasn't yet ready to reveal.

Chris silently vowed that when the time came to reveal his true identity, he would shower Maia with the most exquisite treasures.

He released a soft sigh, his voice tinged with humility and regret. "Regrettably, I'm just an ordinary man, unable to bestow the lavish gifts that Vince might. However, I hope this vintage champagne, gathered over the years, reflects my genuine intentions and that you'll appreciate it."

"Absolutely," Maia responded as she accepted the champagne and tasted it delicately. The champagne surprised her with its subtle, refined flavor, its aromatic bouquet, and its sweet aftertaste. It rivaled the high-end champagne she once enjoyed with Zoey behind bars.

Maia turned to Chris, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "This champagne is remarkable, Mr. Cooper. Where did you acquire it?"

With a knowing smile and a contemplative look, Chris replied with a light chuckle, "I stumbled upon it quite by chance many years ago. It seems I found a hidden treasure."

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