Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase Novel

Chapter 647: With every step, her navy blue blazer caught the light, golden curls falling in soft waves, silver-rimmed glasses giving her an air of precision and control. Dominance and professionalism seemed to radiate from her, setting her apart from the crowd. However, just as she stepped out of the terminal, a woman stepped into her path with determination. Bold in a scarlet trench coat, the newcomer's elegant beauty and commanding presence rivaled her own. Suspicion flickered in Alice's eyes as she studied this unexpected greeter.

She clearly remembered that the person who was supposed to pick her up should have been a man. Caution took hold. Alice eased back a pace, one eyebrow lifting as she inquired, "And who might you be?" The woman met her question with a graceful smile, extending her hand, confidence gleaming in her eyes. "Ms. Byrd, it's wonderful to finally meet you. My name is Pattie Miller. I'm the president of MCN." That introduction brought Alice up short. When she heard the title, Alice's brow knitted in confusion as she stared at Pattie, caught off guard and unable to hide her astonishment.

No part of Alice's plan had involved meeting MCN's president at the airport. "What do you want from me?" she asked coldly. With a soft yet unwavering tone, Pattie tried to put her at ease. "Please, Ms. Byrd, there's no need for alarm. I understand your visit is at Lark Fashion's request, but- "Our company's celebrated designer - Eileen, or just Maia - wishes for a private conversation with you." A sudden tightness seized Alice's posture, suspicion and wariness sharpening her stare. Drawing in a steadying breath, Alice fired back, her words like ice.

"I have nothing to say to someone who steals my work. She ought to worry about compensation and a public apology instead. Kindly step aside!" For a moment, Pattie was caught off guard, searching for the right response. Handling Alice was proving more challenging than expected. She'd made every effort to be courteous, and she knew all too well that laying a hand on Alice was out of the question. . Pattie prepared to explain further when someone burst onto the scene, an imposing arm thrust between her and Alice.

A towering presence loomed over her, and Pattie shrank back as he fixed her with a piercing glare. "Ms. Miller, don't you think this is crossing a line?" The impact of his words sent a chill down Pattie's spine. Dread settled in as recognition dawned. Vance, the eldest son of Larkin, had arrived. Feigning a calm she didn't feel, Pattie cast a sideways glance at Vance. "And what's so out of line about this? I happened to see Ms. Byrd while passing through and wanted to say hello. Why the hostility?" A cold sneer curled on Vance's lips as he shot her a withering glare.

"It had better be just that." . . .