Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase Novel

Chapter 509: But Ethan didn't quite respond the way she expected. Caught in hesitation, he simply said, "Maia... she's great." Marisa was left at a loss for words. Was Ethan being tight-lipped on purpose, or did he just not know how to open up? Setting her utensils aside, Marisa crossed her arms and leaned in slightly. "If you don't talk, I can't help you. Or... do you not trust me enough to share?" Ethan sat up straighter, flustered and hurried. "No, that's not it... I just don't know how to explain." Marisa leaned back in her chair, her expression easing into a gentle smile.

"You know, there's already plenty of gossip about Maia online. Why don't you start with how you two found each other again?" Ethan paused, the wheels turning in his mind. Then, pressing his lips together in thought, he began recounting the story. He told her about their unexpected meeting at the black market and the series of twists and turns that followed. He conveniently skipped over the details about living in the slums - some truths felt too raw to reveal.

Marisa hung on every word, especially the part about Maia being cornered by mysterious men in black and Ethan's clever tactics to outwit them. Her eyes gleamed with admiration. In that moment, Maia seemed like a heroine torn from the reels of a blockbuster film. Marisa, completely engrossed, rested her chin in her hand, eyes wide with fascination. "Well... that's about it," Ethan finished, sipping his water as if it could wash down the guilt of half-told truths. Marisa, however, was already deep in thought, lightly tapping her chin with one finger.

"Given Maia's current standing, she probably isn't in need of anything material. You should think about what her heart truly yearns for - something she's missed, or always wanted but never had. Maybe even a regret she's quietly carried." She paused for effect, then added with quiet conviction, "If you could grant one of her deepest wishes - or undo one lingering regret - now that would be the perfect gift." Her words struck Ethan like a flash of lightning cutting through a foggy sky. He dropped his gaze, piecing together fragments of Maia's past, each memory forming a clearer picture.

Suddenly, clarity burst in his eyes. He looked up, voice brimming with excitement. "Thank you, Marisa!" Don't miss fresh updates at gⱯlnσνls․cøm He jumped up from his seat, the chair scraping back abruptly. "I know exactly what Maia needs now. I'm sorry - but I have to go. I'll come back and thank you properly next time!" With that, Ethan dashed to the counter, paid the bill in a rush, and disappeared out the door like a man chasing the wind. Marisa sat frozen, puzzled and slightly amused.

"Wait - doesn't he at least owe me a hint about what he's planning to give her?" she muttered, both entertained and slightly annoyed. After catching fire online, the Morgan family's grand birthday banquet - thrown in honor of both Rosanna and Maia - had become the hottest subject among Wront's elite circles. Those on the guest list scrambled to outdo each other with extravagant gifts, desperate to impress. Meanwhile, the uninvited were busy tugging at connections, hoping for a seat at the table and a chance to present their offerings to the Morgan daughters.

For a family that had once blended into the background, the Morgans had suddenly become the center of attention. Maia, however, could not have cared less. She stood by the stove, stirring a gently simmering medicinal broth she had prepared for Chris. The warm scent of herbs hung in the air when her phone rang unexpectedly - Claudius. Turning the flame down to low, Maia stepped out of the kitchen and answered, "What is it?" "Ms. Watson, are you free this evening?" Claudius asked, his voice laced with polite charm. "Would I be fortunate enough to invite you to..." . . .